Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small lesions that occur inside the mouth or along the gums, according to the Mayo Clinic. Most are minor, less than 1/2-inch wide, and usually heal on their own without scarring in a couple of weeks. But some grow larger, persist for up to six weeks and leave extensive scarring. There are a number of effective treatments.
Mouth Rinses
For large, chronic or painful canker sores, a doctor may prescribe a mouth rinse containing the steroid dexamethasone to reduce pain and irritation, according to the Mayo Clinic. There are also mouth rinses containing the antibiotic tetracycline, which reduces pain and speeds healing but also carries side effects that can discolor teeth and make a patient susceptible to fungal infection.
For less serious sores, a homemade mouth rinse can help. This could be a simple salt or baking soda rinse or a solution of 1/2 hydrogen peroxide and 1/2 water. Rinse for a full minute, and do not swallow.
Topical Treatments
Available in both prescription and over-the-counter strengths, topical pastes containing benzocaine, amlexanox and fluocinonide, can reduce pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. These pastes can also speed the healing process if they are applied as soon as the canker sores appear. A debacterol paste chemically burns the canker sore to speed healing, according to the Mayo Clinic.
For less serious canker sores, a homemade paste of baking soda and water can help. Dabbing a small amount of milk of magnesia on the sore a few times a day can reduce pain and help the sore heal more quickly. Over-the-counter pastes that contain numbing agents can also provide pain relief. A wet black tea bag applied directly to the sore may help relieve pain because tea contains tannin, a pain-reliever found in some over-the-counter medications, according to Teens Health.
Oral Drugs
Some drugs intended to treat other conditions can also help heal canker sores, according to the Mayo Clinic. The heartburn drug cimetidine and the gout drug colchicine are sometimes prescribed for canker sores. Oral steroids are used when canker sores don't respond to other treatments, but they're a last resort because they carry side effects.
Lifestyle Changes
Acidic and spicy foods may irritate canker sores. Avoid them while the sores heal, according to the Mayo Clinic. Foods with sharp edges, like potato chips or nuts, can also cause pain and are best left alone, according to Teens Health. Be careful when brushing the teeth to avoid worsening the problem. Brush gently with a soft toothbrush, and use a toothpaste that does not have foaming agents in it. Avoid brushing the sore itself.
