Canker sores are typically harmless and resolve within one to two weeks.
However, if they persist beyond what can be accomplished naturally, natural remedies may help relieve discomfort.
Apple cider vinegar is an effective antiseptic solution that can effectively treat sores by killing off bacteria responsible for creating them and helping balance your oral microbiome – two measures which have the power to significantly decrease inflammation.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Canker sores can be an especially frustrating problem. These painful mouth sores often appear unexpectedly and cause excruciating pain for weeks at a time.
Apple cider vinegar is one of the best-known natural treatments for canker sores and should be tried first to relieve pain quickly and heal them fast.
Mixing one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with water and gargling it for one minute can help kill bacteria and promote healing in your mouth, as well as maintaining healthy flora that may prevent sores from forming altogether.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can be an effective natural remedy for canker sores. Simply create a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide and water and apply with cotton swabs directly on affected areas.
Hydrogen peroxide’s antiseptic properties can hasten healing by flushing away bacteria as an ulcer heals, but high concentrations such as 3% should be avoided as they may irritate skin and eyes.
Gargling with salt water can also be an effective treatment for mouth ulcers. Just mix one teaspoon of salt into warm water, swish your tongue for 30 seconds and swallow. This natural solution offers an alternative to harsh chemical-laden mouthwashes that may worsen ulcers further.
Salt Water
Salt water can help speed the healing of canker sores while also relieving pain and inflammation. Simply combine one teaspoon of salt in one cup of water, and rinse your mouth several times each day using this solution.
Milk of magnesia is another natural remedy to heal canker sores. Containing magnesium hydroxide, it neutralizes acids found in your mouth. Apply a small dab of the powder directly to canker sores for immediate relief and speedier healing time.
Apple cider vinegar is an effective natural treatment for canker sores. Packed with antimicrobial agents and beneficial bacteria, apple cider vinegar may help balance oral flora while treating canker sores.
Baking Soda Rinse
Baking soda rinse is a natural solution to both canker sores and mouth ulcers, thanks to its alkaline nature which neutralizes any acids present that irritate a sore.
This can help ease pain and accelerate healing while relieving swelling and discomfort associated with sores.
Baking soda can be used to safely treat canker sores at an economical price, swishing one teaspoon into one cup of warm water and swish around your mouth to create an effective canker sore solution.
As an alternative to over-the-counter mouthwash, coconut water provides an effective solution for those sensitive to harsh ingredients, strengthening teeth and gums while also helping prevent cavities and gingivitis.
Ice
Ice is an effective natural remedy for canker sores, providing quick pain relief and reduced inflammation. Wrap a small ice cube in a paper towel and lay it gently over your sore to give relief from pain and inflammation.
Ice is especially helpful for soothing canker sores on lips, though it can also be used on other parts of the body. Ice will numb the area and speed healing time.
Salt water can also be an effective natural mouth rinse to treat canker sores. Simply gargle this solution five times each day until all sores have healed, at least five minutes each time.
Additionally to using natural treatments, over-the-counter (OTC) products available at drug stores may also help ease discomfort and heal ulcers faster. Such products include gels, creams and mouthwashes designed to alleviate pain quickly.