From the Guidelines
To treat canker sores, the most effective approach is to use a sodium bicarbonate containing mouthwash, increasing the frequency up to every hour if necessary, as suggested by expert opinion 1. This method is recommended for the treatment of stomatitis, which includes canker sores, and is based on the most recent and highest quality study available. The use of sodium bicarbonate mouthwash can help to reduce pain and inflammation, and promote healing. Additionally, other treatments such as chewing gum, candy, salivary substitutes, or sialogogues may be considered to treat oral dryness, and analgesics such as anesthetic mouthwashes, coating agents, or systemic analgesics may be used to manage pain. It is also important to note that canker sores are not contagious and typically result from minor trauma to the mouth's lining, stress, certain foods, or immune system reactions. If a canker sore is unusually large, extremely painful, lasts longer than two weeks, or if you get them frequently, it is recommended to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment. In some cases, prescription-strength mouthwashes or systemic medications may be necessary to treat canker sores, as suggested by expert opinion 1. Overall, the goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing, and improve quality of life. Some key points to consider when treating canker sores include:
- Using a sodium bicarbonate containing mouthwash to reduce pain and inflammation
- Increasing the frequency of mouthwash use up to every hour if necessary
- Considering other treatments such as chewing gum, candy, salivary substitutes, or sialogogues to treat oral dryness
- Using analgesics such as anesthetic mouthwashes, coating agents, or systemic analgesics to manage pain
- Avoiding spicy, acidic, or rough foods that may irritate the sore further.
From the FDA Drug Label
Temporarily relieves pain associated with the following mouth and gum irritations: toothache sore gums canker sores braces minor dental procedures Benzocaine (TOP) can be used for canker sore treatment to temporarily relieve pain associated with canker sores 2.
- The drug is used for temporary pain relief.
- It is used to relieve pain associated with canker sores.
From the Research
Canker Sore Treatment Options
- Topical treatments are the first line therapy for aphthous ulcers, including topical anesthetics, topical steroids, and sucralfate 3
- Lactic acid 5% mouth wash has been shown to be effective in reducing the size, pain, and healing time of recurrent aphthous ulcers, with a lower recurrence rate compared to Kenalog in Orabase 0.1% 4
- Avoiding hard, acidic, and salty foods, as well as toothpastes containing sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, and carbonated drinks, may help prevent aphthous ulcers 5
- Corticosteroids, topical antiseptic/anti-inflammatory agents, and local anesthetics are approved treatments for oral aphthous ulcers in some countries 5
- Systemic treatments, such as colchicine, pentoxifylline, or prednisolone, may be used in severe cases, but their efficacy is debated 5
- Management of aphthous ulcers focuses on reducing pain, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence, and may involve a combination of topical and systemic therapies 6, 7
Treatment Considerations
- The treatment of chronic recurrent oral aphthous ulcers is symptomatic and tailored to the severity of the problem in the individual case 5
- Effective treatment should relieve pain, lessen functional impairment, and lower the frequency and severity of recurrences 5
- Differential diagnosis is important to rule out other conditions that may present with similar oral lesions 3, 7