To get rid of canker sores and relieve their pain, you can use a combination of home remedies, over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, and, if necessary, prescription options:
Home Remedies
- Saltwater rinse: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 1/2 cup of warm water, swish in your mouth for 15-30 seconds, then spit out. Repeat several times a day to help dry out the sore and reduce bacteria
- Baking soda rinse: Dissolve 1 teaspoon baking soda in 1/2 cup water, swish for 15-30 seconds, and spit out. This may help restore pH balance and reduce inflammation
- Hydrogen peroxide: Dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water, apply directly to the sore with a cotton swab or use as a mouth rinse. This cleans the sore and reduces bacteria
- Milk of magnesia: Dab a small amount on the sore to neutralize acid and coat the ulcer, reducing irritation and pain. Repeat 3 times daily
- Coconut oil: Apply to the sore several times daily for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects
- Chamomile compress: Apply a cooled chamomile tea bag to soothe pain and inflammation
- Avoid irritants: Eat soft, bland foods and avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that can worsen pain
Over-the-Counter Treatments
- Topical anesthetics: Gels or creams containing lidocaine or benzocaine can numb the sore and reduce pain
- Mouth rinses: Chlorhexidine mouthwash prevents infection and inflammation; avoid alcohol-containing rinses as they can irritate the sore
- Corticosteroid creams or gels: Reduce inflammation and speed healing; some are available by prescription
- Pain relievers: NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help manage pain
Prescription and Medical Treatments
- Prescription mouthwashes or topical medications: May contain steroids or analgesics for severe cases
- Chemical cautery: Treatments like Debacterol or silver nitrate can cauterize the sore to provide immediate relief
- Laser therapy: Dental lasers can reduce pain and speed healing
Additional Tips
- Maintain good oral hygiene but brush gently to avoid irritating the sore
- If sores persist longer than two weeks, are unusually large, very painful, or recur frequently, consult a healthcare professional
These approaches can help reduce pain and promote faster healing of canker sores, which typically resolve on their own within one to two weeks
