Treating Canker Sores Quickly and Effectively

Canker sores are a common affliction in the oral mucosa, appearing as small but often intensely painful ulcers that can complicate drinking, eating, and speaking. Characterized by a typical yellowish-gray inflammatory halo, in severe cases, they can lead to fever and swollen lymph nodes. Fortunately, canker sore treatment can be swift and pain-free. In this article, we explore both home remedies and professional treatments for canker sores.

Symptoms of Canker Sores

To choose the right treatment, it's crucial to recognize canker sores correctly. They can easily be confused with herpes, which is blistery and typically appears around the lips. Here are the most common signs of canker sores:

Burning, severe pain in the affected area
Ulcers typically appearing on the floor of the mouth, tongue, or sides of the mouth
Less commonly, they can also occur on the tonsils, throat, or gums
Difficulty eating and drinking due to increased pain
In severe cases, constant pain can hinder speech

Types of Canker Sores

Canker diseases can be classified into three categories based on their severity and other characteristics. Below, we summarize the essential differences:

Mikulicz-type Canker Sore

Most common type.
Up to 10 millimeters in diameter.
Typically 2-4 millimeters, often appearing in multiple locations simultaneously.
Causes moderate pain.
Treatment takes 5-10 days.

Cooke-type Canker Sore

Easily confused with herpes.
Appears similar to herpes, about 1 millimeter in diameter.
Often appears in clusters.
Treatment takes 5-10 days.

Sutton-type Canker Sore

Affects deeper tissues, more severe ulcer.
Diameter can reach 20-30 millimeters.
Treatment may take months.
It is advisable to consult a specialist for Sutton-type sores.

Canker Sore Treatments: 4+1 Methods to Try

This painful ulcerative condition can complicate everyday life. Acidic foods (like tomatoes and citrus), alcohol consumption, and even brushing can cause significant pain due to the sores. Fortunately, treating canker sores is often possible at home. Here we present 4+1 methods for quick and effective treatment:

Home Treatment with Mouthwash
- Simplest tool for minor diameter ulcers.
- Antimicrobial rinses and mouthwashes available in drugstores and pharmacies can keep the ulcer clean and shorten the healing time.
Canker Sore Treatment for Children with Rinse
- Treating kids poses extra challenges due to intense pain causing them to poke the sore with fingers.
- Important to properly inform and manage pain for children.
- Use child-specific antibacterial rinses, which are alcohol-free and pleasantly flavored.
Treating Mouth Canker Sores with Saltwater Rinse
- A popular home remedy; effective for many.
- Should be used no more than once daily.

Instructions for Saltwater Rinse:

Mix 30 grams of table salt in 500 milliliters of lukewarm water.
Swish with the solution, avoiding swallowing.

Canker Sore Treatment in the Mouth with Baking Soda
- Similar to the previous method, using a baking soda solution is a common home remedy.
- Recommended to use no more than once daily.

Instructions for Baking Soda Rinse:

Mix 50 grams of baking soda in 500 milliliters of lukewarm water.
Swish with the solution, do not swallow.

+1 Canker Sore Home Treatment with Sage Tea or Powder

Sage leaves can be used in two ways for treating canker sores, detailed below.

Sage Tea Method:

Boil 1 liter of water.
Add 50 grams of dried or fresh sage leaves.
Pour hot water over the leaves, wait 1 hour, strain, check temperature, and use for rinsing.

Sage Powder Method:

Crush 50 grams of sage leaves into a paste.
Apply directly to the ulcer.
Rinse with water after 5-10 minutes.

Treating Canker Sores with Medication?

No direct medicinal treatments for canker sores.
In cases of large, painful sores, pain relief medication may be recommended by a doctor.

When to See a Specialist?

If home treatments are unsuccessful, or if you have a Sutton-type sore.
In some cases, canker sores may be caused by orthodontic or dental prosthetics.
Elimination of mucosal irritation may require professional involvement.

Fehérvári Dental: Professional Dental Care in Budapest

Since our establishment in 1997, we strive to provide your family with the highest standard of comprehensive care, covering all dental areas necessary for complex treatments requiring multiple specialists. Our clinic is equipped with modern facilities and a professional team, ensuring coordinated care throughout your visit.

Book an appointment today to address your dental needs with the utmost care and professionalism.