Canker sores are also called aphthous ulcers and are found in the mouth, cheeks, lips, throat and occasionally on the tongue. According to ClevelandClinic.org, they are not contagious. Canker sores usually occur alone, but they can form in clusters and can be as large as 1 inch in diameter, although they are usually much smaller. A canker sore will take approximately two weeks to heal, there are some natural and over-the-counter remedies you can use to provide comfort and encourage healing.
Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications
KidsHealth.org says that carbamide peroxide, a product that is peroxide and glycerin, helps clean out the sore while also providing a protective coating to help the sore heal. Many other over-the-counter products may sting at first and will require multiple applications. ClevelandClinic.org says that if the canker sores are large or persistent, a dentist may prescribe an antimicrobial mouth rinse or a corticosteroid ointment. Prescription and non-prescription solutions may also decrease pain and irritation.
Mouth Rinses
Many parents have used salt-water rinses to help ease the discomfort and encourage healing of canker sores. KidsHealth.org suggests two recipes for canker sore mouth washes. Two ounces of hydrogen peroxide mixed with 2 oz. of water, rinse the mouth out four times a day for 1 minute. Four ounces of water, 1 tsp. of salt and 1 tsp. of baking soda may also be used four times a day, for one minute at each use. Use mouth washes with care in young children. Mouth washes should not be swallowed.
Black Tea With Tannin
According to KidsHealth.org, placing a wet black tea bag on the sore may decrease discomfort. Black tea contains tannin, an astringent known for its pain-relieving properties.
