If you’ve ever suffered through aphthous ulcers, one of several types of canker sores, you know the debilitating pain can make eating, drinking or even talking and smiling miserable. And if you’re reading this post, you’re probably desperate for a treatment for canker sores. So, what’s the solution?
Whether you’re dealing with canker sores inside your mouth, under your tongue, on your gums, or even on the roof of your mouth, help is on the way! If your canker sore won’t go away, keep reading for both home and in-office remedies, plus expert advice that can help speed the healing process.
Canker Sores 101: What Are They and What Causes Them?
Canker sores are small, shallow ulcers that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth, on your tongue, or at the base of your gums.
Canker Sores vs. Cold Sores: What’s the Difference?
The herpes simplex virus causes cold sores, which appear outside the mouth, typically on the lips. Canker sores, on the other hand, occur inside the mouth and are not viral.
What Causes Canker Sores?
Canker sores can be triggered by several things:
- Vitamin deficiencies (especially B12, zinc, iron, or folate)
- High stress levels
- Hormonal changes (common during pregnancy and childbearing years)
- Autoimmune conditions (like HIV or celiac disease)
- Minor injuries (e.g., biting your lip or inner cheek or sharp foods, like a potato chip, puncturing your inner cheek)
- Orthodontic appliances like braces or retainers
Sometimes, they show up for seemingly no reason at all, and for some people, they become a chronic, painful nuisance.
How Long Can Canker Sores Last?
Most canker sores heal on their own in stages within 7 to 10 days. However, for those who experience chronic outbreaks — often women in their childbearing years — aphthous ulcers may persist for up to two weeks; some may appear in clusters and even grow together to form a larger ulcer.
If you frequently battle these painful ulcers, it’s time to explore treatment options for canker sores.
Schedule an Appointment with Pleasant Dental!
Need a Canker Sores Remedy That Works?
The good news is you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether you prefer an over-the-counter home remedy, in-office treatments, or natural treatment, these ten options can help provide pain relief and speed healing. It’s also important to find the remedy or relief that works for you and your body.
At-Home and Natural Remedies
- Saltwater or baking soda rinses: Salt can help keep the area clean and promote healing.
- Hydrogen peroxide (diluted with water): Kills bacteria and reduces inflammation.
- Honey: A natural antibacterial, honey can soothe pain and support healing.
- Milk of magnesia: Coats the sore and neutralizes acids in the mouth.
- L-lysine supplements: Some studies suggest this amino acid may help reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
- Cranberry juice: High-concentrate cranberry juice may help prevent bacterial buildup and promote a healthy mouth. For those with chronic ulcers or aphthous ulcers, we recommend keeping high-concentrate cranberry juice on hand at all times. With the first appearance of an ulcer, drink several glasses of juice throughout each day. You may also opt to regularly consume a glass a day for hopeful, preventative measures.
In-Office and Medicinal Treatments
- Magic Mouthwash: A prescription rinse that temporarily numbs pain and reduces inflammation
- Topical gels: Like benzocaine, which numbs the sore for temporary relief
- Antibiotics: Used in rare cases of bacterial infection
- Silver nitrate cauterization: For extreme cases, a dentist can apply this compound to reduce pain and kickstart healing. You’ll usually notice a remarkable difference in your pain level the same day (within a few hours to 24 hours).
NOTE: It’s also important to avoid acidic foods, such as tomato sauce and citrus fruit, when experiencing canker sores or ulcers. These foods will exacerbate any discomfort you’re feeling.
No one solution works for everyone. If you’re experiencing frequent or stubborn canker sores, a visit to your dentist can help uncover underlying causes and develop a plan that works for you.
Canker Sores FAQs
Are canker sores contagious?
No. Unlike cold sores, canker sores and aphthous ulcers aren’t caused by a virus and can’t be passed from person to person.
What if I have multiple canker sores?
The presence of multiple ulcers at once may indicate a vitamin deficiency or an underlying immune-deficiency condition. It’s worth discussing with your dentist or primary care provider.
What if my canker sores aren’t healing?
If a sore sticks around for more than two weeks, it’s time to seek professional help. Persistent ulcers or canker sores in the throat can sometimes signal a more serious condition.
Are canker sores herpes?
Nope. Here’s the short explanation on canker sores vs fever blisters: Herpes causes cold sores, also known as fever blisters, which appear outside the mouth.
Could a mouth ulcer be a sign of cancer?
Occasionally, a non-healing ulcer or swollen lymph node could be something more serious. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to have it checked. Early detection means better protection for you and your family.
Lasting Relief Starts with the Right Treatment for Canker Sores
Canker sores may be small, but they can cause a good amount of pain and discomfort. Whether you want to smile, laugh, and enjoy dinner with your family, you deserve to appreciate the moments that matter.
At Pleasant Dental, we understand how important it is to protect your comfort, your health, and your time. If you’re dealing with frequent or painful canker sores or ulcers, Dr. Shah and his friendly team are here to help you get the relief you deserve.
Are your ulcers or canker sores not healing?
Call Pleasant Dental TODAY to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward lasting comfort.
“If you’re going through hell, keep going.”
– Winston Churchill
