Canker sores, also called aphthous ulcers, are sores that develop in the soft tissues of the mouth. Although their exact cause is unknown, canker sores can be triggered by trauma, chemical or food sensitivities, infections, stress or certain medical conditions. These sores are not contagious and usually heal on their own. But canker sores can be very painful, particularly when eating, drinking or talking, prompting sufferers to use doctor-recommended treatments and home remedies, such as salt water rinses, to speed healing and reduce pain.

Is This an Emergency? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Doctor-Recommended Treatments

Treatment of canker sores is directed at managing pain, speeding up the healing process and preventing recurrent sores 2. If the sores are large, painful or keep coming back, your doctor may recommend certain over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription treatments, such as antimicrobial rinses and topical steroids 3. Other helpful OTC products include:

emollients that coat



protect the sore from acidic or spicy foods



numbing agents



such as benzocaine



or oral pain relievers



including ibuprofen or acetaminophen

Severe or recurrent canker sores may require the use of oral steroids or other prescription medications.

Popular Home Remedies

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While canker sores are still open and not yet healed, the associated pain and discomfort can be worsened by eating, drinking or talking. Consequently, canker sore sufferers tend to try a variety of approaches, including home remedies, to curb the pain and improve healing. Examples of these natural treatments include:

supplementation with B vitamins



zinc



probiotics



or the amino acid L-lysine,



herbal rinses made from chamomile



echinacea



myrrh



licorice or aloe

Homeopathic remedies and rinsing with salt water are also commonly used to treat mouth sores. However, to date there is little research on the effectiveness of these remedies in the treatment of canker sores 2.

While canker sores are still open and not yet healed, the associated pain and discomfort can be worsened by eating, drinking or talking.

Salt Water Solution

Salt water solutions may be one of the most traditional home remedies for mouth and dental problems -- and they are also commonly believed to speed the healing of canker sores. To prepare, mix a solution of 1 teaspoon salt and 1 cup of water. You may also add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to the mixture. Rinse the mouth for about 30 seconds, 3 to 4 times daily, then spit the saline solution into the sink. Although there's no proof this salt rinse is an effective canker sore treatment, there are reasons it may help. Rinsing the mouth with salt water can reduce bacterial counts, reduce inflammation and improve wound healing, according to preliminary research.

Salt water solutions may be one of the most traditional home remedies for mouth and dental problems -- and they are also commonly believed to speed the healing of canker sores.

Warnings

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While most canker sores heal on their own, it's important to see a doctor if you have sores that last 2 weeks or more, or if you have very large, painful or recurring sores. Also see your doctor if you have severe pain, difficulty eating or drinking or if you have a fever along with the sore.

Reviewed by Kay Peck, MPH RD