Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are small open lesions that form inside the mouth. The white or yellow sores have a red or pink center, and are often painful. Sores may appear inside the cheeks, on the tongue or on the gum line. Stress, diet, hormonal changes as well as viral infections may trigger canker sores, which take 1 to 3 weeks to heal. A variety of treatments decrease the duration of the ulcers and soothe open sores. According to MedlinePlus, treatment is often not necessary as most canker soles heal on their own.
Oral Rinses
Over-the-counter mouthwashes relieve the discomfort associated with the open ulcer. Patients may also gargle with warm salt water to relieve irritation, suggests MedlinePlus. Mixing a tablespoon of table salt with in a warm glass of water creates a simple homemade remedy. Patients may also make a solution of 50 percent hydrogen peroxide and 50 percent water. The solution is applied to the canker sore with a cotton swab, advises MedlinePlus. A small amount of milk of magnesia is then added to the open site for additional pain relief. Patients with many canker sores can use stronger prescription oral rinses which may contain the steroid dexamethasone or the antibiotic tetracycline. Side effects of oral tetracycline rinses include the development of oral thrush as well as teeth discoloration.
Additional Medications
Oral pastes and gels applied to the canker sore may promote healing and decrease irritation. These include benzocaine, amlexanox and fluocinonide pastes and gels. According to MayoClinic.com, the medications remain most effective if applied directly on canker sores as soon as they appear. Eating or drinking should be avoided after application. Only enough medication should be applied to cover the canker sore.
Home Treatments
Ice chips placed over the canker sore and slowly allowed to dissolve can numb the area and decrease pain. Alternatively, a baking soda paste can be made by adding a small amount of water to baking soda. The paste can then be applied over the canker sore for relief. Patients are advise to avoid hot or spicy foods that cause further irritation, and to seek medical attention if canker sores do not show improvement within 2 weeks, suggests MedlinePlus.
