Home care can make a typical canker sore more comfortable while it heals. Most minor sores clear in one to two weeks. Mayo Clinic
What can help with discomfort?
- Salt water rinse. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in one cup (250 mL) of warm water. Rinse and spit it out.
- Cool drinks or ice chips. Try what feels comfortable, particularly before eating.
- Soft, bland foods. If citrus, spicy foods or crunchy snacks make the sore sting, choose something softer until it settles.
- Gentle brushing. Use a soft toothbrush and try to avoid scraping the sore.
What about alum or hydrogen peroxide?
Start with the comfort measures above. If you want to try an oral rinse or a numbing product, ask a pharmacist which product is suitable and follow its Canadian label. See our canker sore relief guide for more options.
When to get a sore checked
See a dentist or doctor if the sore has not healed after two weeks. Seek advice sooner if it is unusually large or painful, keeps recurring, or makes it difficult to eat or drink. Mayo Clinic
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional dental or medical advice. See a dentist or doctor if the sore has not healed after two weeks. Seek advice sooner if it is unusually large, very painful, or keeps recurring. ORALMEDIC is a Class I medical device; always follow the product instructions.