To treat canker sores effectively, you can use a combination of home remedies, over-the-counter (OTC) products, and, if necessary, prescription treatments:
Home and OTC Treatments
- Mouth rinses: Rinse your mouth with salt water (1 teaspoon salt in 1/2 cup warm water) or baking soda rinse to reduce pain and inflammation
. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes as they can irritate sores
- Topical applications: Apply milk of magnesia, lidocaine-containing gels, or OTC anesthetic creams to numb pain and protect the sore
. Alum powder paste may also help dry out sores
- Cold therapy: Use ice chips or a cold compress to numb pain and reduce swelling
- Avoid irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent further irritation
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain
Prescription and Medical Treatments
- Corticosteroids: Prescription corticosteroid creams, pastes, or mouthwashes can reduce inflammation and pain
- Other medications: In some cases, doctors may prescribe sucralfate, colchicine, or steroid pills for severe or recurrent sores
- Cautery: Chemical or laser cautery may be used to destroy the sore and speed healing
- Nutritional supplements: If deficiencies in folate, vitamin B-6, B-12, or zinc are suspected, supplements may be recommended
Additional Home Remedies
- Natural remedies: Applying coconut oil, aloe vera gel, honey, chamomile compress, echinacea rinse, or sage mouthwash may help reduce pain and promote healing due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
When to See a Doctor
- If sores persist beyond two weeks, worsen, recur frequently, or are accompanied by fever, diarrhea, headache, or rash, seek medical advice
Canker sores generally heal on their own within 10 to 14 days, but these treatments can help relieve pain and speed recovery
