A canker sore is an open sore in the mouth. The primary symptoms is pain. The cause of canker sores is unknown, according to Medline Plus, a website of the National Institutes of Health. Possible causes of canker sore include hormonal changes, a virus, immune system problems and stress. Further, women are more likely to experience canker sores than to men, according to Medline Plus.
No Treatment
Medline Plus notes that most canker sores heal without any treatment intervention in one to three weeks.
Mouth Rinses
Salt water and drugstore mouthwashes can help ease the pain of a canker sore, according to Medline Plus. Also, a mixture of one part hydrogen peroxide and one part water can be used to treat a canker sore, according to Medline Plus. Apply the mixture via a cotton swab onto the canker sore. This treatment is followed by an application of Milk of Magnesia to the canker sore three or four time daily to help the healing process. Another mixture suggested by Medline Plus is one part Benadryl liquid allergy medicine and one part Milk of Magnesia. People gargle this mixture to treat canker sores.
Wet Black Tea Bags
According to KidsHealth, wet black tea bags may alleviate the pain of canker sores. Black tea includes the ingredient tannin which soothes pain.
Fluocinonide Gel
Fluocinonide gel can be used to treat serious cases of canker sores. Available via prescription, the gel works to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort associated with a canker sore. According to Drugs.com, a small amount should be applied to the canker sore at time intervals specified by a doctor.
