Mouth Ulcer Treatment: Effective Remedies and What Works Best

When you get a mouth ulcer, a painful sore inside the mouth that can make eating, talking, or even smiling uncomfortable. Also known as canker sores, these small lesions aren't contagious but can last for days and feel worse than they look. They show up on the inside of your cheeks, lips, tongue, or under the gums—often without warning. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by a virus and appear outside the mouth, mouth ulcers come from stress, minor injuries, certain foods, or even some medications.

Some people notice them after brushing too hard, biting their cheek, or eating spicy or acidic food. Others get them because of vitamin B12, iron, or folate deficiencies. If you’re on medication like carbimazole, a thyroid drug linked to dry mouth and oral irritation, you might be more prone to them. Even stress and hormonal shifts can trigger outbreaks. The good news? Most mouth ulcers heal on their own in 7 to 14 days. But you don’t have to just wait it out.

There are simple, proven ways to speed up healing and reduce pain. Over-the-counter gels with benzocaine or hyaluronic acid can numb the area and protect the sore. Rinsing with salt water or a baking soda solution helps clean the wound and lowers acidity. Avoiding citrus, coffee, and crunchy snacks makes a real difference. If ulcers keep coming back, it’s worth checking for underlying issues like celiac disease, Crohn’s, or immune problems. Some people find relief with topical steroids or prescription mouthwashes—especially if the sores are large or frequent.

What you won’t find in most guides is how often mouth ulcers are tied to other conditions you might not connect. For example, if you’re using oseltamivir, an antiviral that can cause nausea and dry mouth, or lamotrigine, a mood stabilizer known to trigger skin and mouth reactions, your ulcers might be a side effect. And if you’re managing epilepsy with Dilantin, a drug that can cause gum overgrowth and oral discomfort, your oral health needs extra attention.

You’ll find real stories and practical tips in the posts below—what actually worked for people, what didn’t, and when to skip the home remedy and call your doctor. No fluff. No hype. Just what helps when your mouth hurts and you need relief fast.