How to Get Rid of a Canker Sore

Effective treatments for canker sores

• Aloe vera gel: A natural home remedy to get rid of a canker sore. Apply directly to reduce pain and speed up healing. You can also drink aloe vera juice for additional benefits.

• Corticosteroid ointments: An effective canker sore treatment. Apply 2-4 times daily, especially if used early in the development of the lesion. This can promote healing and shorten the duration of the canker sore.

• Salt water rinse: A simple home remedy for canker sores. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt into a half-cup to a cup of warm water. Rinse your mouth several times a day to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Amlexanox paste 5%: A professional treatment to get rid of a canker sore. Apply 1-2 days before the ulcer appears (if you can predict it) to significantly reduce its effects. It can also diminish pain and hasten resolution of existing ulcers.

• Probiotic lozenges: Use lozenges containing Lactobacillus reuteri for pain relief and ulcer healing as part of your canker sore treatment.

• Vitamin B12 supplementation: This may prevent ulcer recurrence, even if your B12 levels are normal, helping you get rid of canker sores long-term.

Advanced treatments for canker sores

• Metalloproteinase inhibitors: Low doses of doxycycline or minocycline can significantly improve ulcer healing and reduce pain without systemic effects.

• Debacterol or HybenX: A single application can significantly diminish pain by disrupting the microbial biofilm through desiccation, denaturation, and coagulation.

• Laser therapy: This can immediately relieve pain, speed healing, and reduce recurrences. However, it's expensive and requires specialized training.

Prevention tips: How to get rid of canker sores before they start

• Avoid stress, as it can trigger canker sores.
• Be cautious with acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and strawberries, which can cause or exacerbate canker sores.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent mouth injuries that can lead to canker sores.

Important distinctions: Canker sores vs. cold sores

• Canker sores appear inside the mouth, while cold sores (fever blisters) show up outside, typically around the lips.
• Canker sores are not contagious, unlike cold sores which are caused by a contagious virus.
• Canker sores typically heal in 1-2 weeks, while cold sores may take 2-4 weeks.

FAQ

How long does it take for a canker sore to heal?

Typically, canker sores heal on their own within 1-2 weeks. However, using treatments like aloe vera gel, corticosteroid ointments, or salt water rinses can speed up the healing process and provide relief from pain and discomfort.

What are the best home remedies for canker sores?

The most effective home remedies for canker sores include applying aloe vera gel directly to the sore, using salt water rinses several times a day, and taking vitamin B12 supplements. These methods can help reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent recurrence.

Can I use over-the-counter treatments to get rid of a canker sore?

Yes, several over-the-counter treatments can help get rid of a canker sore. These include amlexanox paste 5%, which can be applied early in the sore's development, and probiotic lozenges containing Lactobacillus reuteri. These treatments can reduce pain and speed up healing.

How can I prevent canker sores from recurring?

To prevent canker sores from recurring, try to reduce stress, avoid acidic foods, maintain good oral hygiene, and consider taking vitamin B12 supplements. These preventive measures can help minimize the frequency and severity of canker sores.

What's the difference between canker sore treatment and cold sore treatment?

Canker sore treatment focuses on pain relief and promoting healing of sores inside the mouth, using remedies like aloe vera gel and salt water rinses. Cold sore treatment, on the other hand, targets viral infections outside the mouth, typically using antiviral medications. Canker sores are not contagious, while cold sores are, so their treatments differ significantly.