10 Fastest Ways to Get Rid of Canker Sores

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Highlights:

Speed up healing with OTC treatments – Use benzocaine gels (like Orajel), antiseptic mouth rinses, or hydrogen peroxide to relieve pain and protect the sore.
Try simple home remedies – Rinsing with saltwater or baking soda, applying honey or aloe vera, and even holding an ice cube on the sore can help.
Avoid common triggers – Stay away from spicy, acidic, and salty foods, and switch to SLS-free toothpaste to prevent future irritation.
Know when to seek professional help – If a sore lasts more than 2 weeks, grows unusually large, or comes with fever or difficulty swallowing, see a dentist.
Prevention is key – Reduce stress, eat a balanced diet rich in B12 and iron, and maintain good oral hygiene to minimize future outbreaks.

Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) can be incredibly painful and annoying, but the good news is they usually heal on their own. However, if you want to speed up the healing process and reduce pain, here are the 10 fastest and most effective ways to get rid of canker sores—backed by research and expert advice.

1. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Best for: Immediate pain relief

What to use:

Benzocaine gels (like Orajel or Anbesol) – These topical treatments can quickly numb the sore area, making it easier to manage discomfort in the short term.
Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash – A simple swish with this can disinfect the affected area while promoting healing, though it’s best diluted with water.
Chlorhexidine mouth rinse (available by prescription) – Known for its ability to reduce inflammation, it can also help keep bacteria at bay, particularly for swollen or infected gums.

These remedies offer temporary relief, but they’re not a permanent fix. If your pain lingers or worsens, it’s essential to consult your dentist. Don’t ignore ongoing toothaches—getting to the root of the problem early could save you from more extensive treatment down the road!

2. Try a Saltwater Rinse

Best for: Killing bacteria and reducing inflammation

A saltwater rinse is a simple, effective remedy you can try at home.

Just mix ½ teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm—not hot—water.
Swish it gently around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.
Repeat this 3-4 times a day to help reduce swelling and fight off harmful bacteria.

Saltwater isn’t just soothing—it’s nature’s disinfectant. It can promote faster healing and keep your gums feeling fresh. While this is a great temporary fix, keep in mind that persistent pain might mean it’s time to see your dentist. Don’t ignore the signs your mouth is giving you!

Taking proper care of your teeth at home is important, but regular check-ups are the key to long-term dental health. If the pain continues, schedule a visit—it’s better to be safe than sorry.

3. Apply Baking Soda Paste

Best for: Neutralizing acid and soothing irritation

A simple baking soda paste might just be your new best friend. It works wonders by balancing acidity and creating an environment where your sore can heal faster. Here’s how to whip it up:

Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water, just enough to form a paste.
Gently apply it right onto the sore. Leave it there for a couple of minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Try this 1-2 times a day, and you’ll likely notice quicker healing and less irritation.

Best of all? It’s easy, affordable, and probably something you already have in your kitchen. Small steps like these can make a big difference in feeling better—fast!

4. Use Honey for Natural Healing

Best for: Reducing inflammation and pain naturally

Got a sore that's bothering you? Try raw honey, a true natural healer!

Dab a small amount directly onto the sore 3-4 times a day. Why honey? Its antibacterial properties help fight infection while reducing swelling and soothing pain. Plus, it's all-natural—no chemicals, just nature's goodness.
For the best results, stick to unprocessed, organic honey. The purer it is, the more effective it’ll be.

This simple remedy is not only quick but also wonderfully gentle, making it a great addition to your dental care routine.

5. Apply Aloe Vera Gel

Best for: Soothing irritation and promoting tissue repair

Aloe vera is a true lifesaver when it comes to soothing irritation and promoting natural tissue repair. It’s gentle, effective, and incredibly easy to use.

Simply grab a fresh aloe vera leaf, slice it open, and scoop out that cooling gel. Dab it directly onto the irritated area—it’ll feel instantly refreshing.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes so the skin can soak in all those nourishing properties. Afterward, rinse gently with lukewarm water.
To get the best results, repeat this process 2-3 times daily. Consistency is key here! Aloe vera is known for its calming effects and ability to support healing naturally, so it’s a perfect addition to your care routine.

Using aloe is completely safe and fuss-free, leaving you feeling well cared for. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to make a big difference with such a small effort. Natural remedies like this are sometimes all we need to feel more comfortable and supported in our healing process.

6. Numb the Pain with Ice

Best for: Instant pain relief

Looking for instant pain relief? Grab an ice cube.

Simply hold it gently against the sore spot for a few minutes. It’ll numb the area and calm any swelling.
Here’s a tip—this trick works best before eating or drinking, giving you a chance to enjoy your meals sans discomfort. It’s a safe, simple method you can use anytime.
Don’t forget to wrap the ice cube in a soft cloth if your skin's sensitive!

When it comes to managing pain, a little cold therapy goes a long way. It’s a smart step toward feeling better while protecting your dental health.

7. Switch to an SLS-Free Toothpaste

Best for: Preventing future sores

Many conventional toothpastes contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent known to irritate the delicate tissue inside your mouth. For some, it’s a hidden cause of those pesky, painful sores.

The good news? Switching to an SLS-free toothpaste can make a world of difference. Options like Sensodyne Pronamel or Biotene are gentle on your mouth and help reduce irritation. Over time, they can even prevent future outbreaks entirely.

Your oral health deserves care—not triggers. Give your smile the soothing attention it needs, and you might just say goodbye to those unwelcome sores for good!

8. Try Prescription Treatments for Severe Cases

Best for: Persistent or recurring canker sores

For those dealing with persistent or recurring canker sores, it might be time to explore prescription treatments. Severe cases can be frustrating, but options exist to help you find relief.

Steroid mouth rinses, such as Dexamethasone, work to reduce inflammation, calming the area and making eating or talking less painful.
For chronic conditions, oral medications like Colchicine or even Thalidomide (used sparingly) may be recommended.
Laser therapy, a quick, non-invasive option that can speed up healing and even reduce pain instantly.

You don’t have to endure the discomfort forever. A consult with a healthcare professional will guide you to the option that’s best for you. Taking the next step toward relief is empowering, and your dental health will thank you for it!

9. Avoid Spicy, Acidic, or Salty Foods

Best for: Preventing irritation and pain

When dealing with a sore mouth, what you eat matters.

Spicy, acidic, or salty foods might seem tempting, but they can quickly turn discomfort into outright pain. Think citrus fruits, tomatoes, hot sauces, or salty snacks—these are best avoided while your sore heals. Instead, go for bland, soft options like oatmeal, mashed potatoes, or yogurt, which are gentle on irritated areas.

Treat your mouth with care, and you'll likely notice the difference in comfort and healing time. A little adjustment in diet now means less pain and faster recovery later!

10. Manage Stress to Prevent Recurrence

Best for: Long-term prevention

Stress has a sneaky way of creeping into our lives, and it’s often a major trigger for canker sores. The good news? You can take control. Small steps, like practicing meditation or incorporating deep breathing exercises, can help keep stress in check. Love a more active approach? Try a quick workout or a calming yoga session—exercise is a natural stress-buster!

But it’s not just about stress. Your diet matters too. Make sure you’re getting enough vitamin B12, iron, and folate to prevent nutrient deficiencies that might contribute to flare-ups. Balancing your nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated—just add in leafy greens, eggs, or fortified cereals to your meals.

With a few thoughtful changes, you can keep stress levels down, build healthier habits, and give your mouth the care it deserves. Stay proactive—it’s worth it!

When to See a Dentist

Most canker sores resolve on their own in about 7-10 days, but there are times when it’s best to reach out to a professional. You should see a dentist if:

The sore lasts more than 2 weeks.
It’s larger than a dime or begins to spread.
You experience fever, intense pain, or have trouble swallowing.
You’re having frequent outbreaks — say, 3 or more per month.

At Nova Dental, we understand how uncomfortable canker sores can be. That’s why we’re here to help. We’ll work with you to uncover the cause and offer expert treatments to relieve your discomfort. Don’t wait if something feels off — catching issues early can make all the difference.

Your comfort matters. Your health matters. We're here to support your smile every step of the way!

Conclusion

Canker sores are painful, but thankfully, they’re manageable! The trick? Using fast-acting remedies, steering clear of irritants, and keeping up with good oral hygiene. These small, pesky sores might feel overwhelming, but with the right care, they’ll be gone before you know it.

From soothing rinses to over-the-counter treatments, there’s a solution that works for everyone. Don’t forget—prevention is key, too. Stay hydrated, avoid spicy foods, and give your mouth the care it deserves.

Still struggling? Sometimes, you need expert advice.

Contact Nova Dental today for a consultation! Whether it’s recurring sores or something more serious, we’re here to help. Your smile matters—don’t wait to find the relief you’ve been looking for!