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 Mouth Pain & Sores
​Over the counter relief options 

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Having a mouth sore?
Mouth sores, also called canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop on the inner lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue. They usually appear as round or oval ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border. While harmless and self-limiting, they can cause significant discomfort when eating, drinking, or speaking. Dental pain, on the other hand, is often sharp, throbbing, or constant, typically resulting from cavities, gum disease, cracked teeth, or injury. Both conditions can disrupt daily life and may worsen if not managed appropriately.

Most cases improve with simple care and over-the-counter dental pain and mouth sore relief options. Topical anesthetics like benzocaine gels numb sore spots temporarily, while protective pastes and barrier creams shield ulcers from irritation. Antiseptic rinses help clean the mouth and reduce bacteria, promoting faster healing.

For toothaches or widespread discomfort, oral pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation until professional care is available. Find what woks for your condition.

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Pharmacist-recommended products​​

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Anbesol®, Orajel® , Benzodent Max Strength®

These products contain benzocaine, a fast-acting numbing agent that temporarily reduces the pain from canker sores, gum irritation, or dental discomfort. They help make eating, drinking, and talking more comfortable by desensitizing the sore area for short periods. Because benzocaine works on contact, it’s especially useful for sharp, localized pain. Avoid overuse, and do not apply to large areas of broken skin.

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Canker Cover®, Kank-A® barriers (Protective Barriers)

These pastes and barrier films coat the surface of a mouth sore, creating a thin, protective shield that prevents irritation from food, drinks, and brushing. Some form a soft “patch” that stays in place for several hours, reducing pain and giving the sore time to heal without constant friction. They’re ideal for people who experience intense discomfort whenever the sore is touched.

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Antiseptic Mouth Rinses (Colgate Peroxyl®, Oral-B Mouth Sore®)

These rinses use hydrogen peroxide, salt-based solutions, or other gentle antiseptics to clean the inside of the mouth, reduce bacteria, and lower the risk of infection. They help remove debris, soothe irritated tissues, and promote healing of minor mouth sores. Peroxide-based rinses may foam slightly, which helps lift dead tissue and cleanse the area without scrubbing.

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Advil® (Ibuprofen 200 mg)

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation. It is especially effective for dental-related pain—such as gum tenderness, toothaches, or mouth sores with inflammation. Ibuprofen works quickly and provides several hours of relief. For best tolerance, take it with food.

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Tylenol® (Acetaminophen)​​​

A gentle, stomach-friendly pain reliever that reduces discomfort without affecting inflammation. It’s a good choice for people who cannot take NSAIDs due to stomach sensitivity, allergies, or medical conditions. Effective for mild to moderate mouth pain and safe for most users when taken as directed.

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Pharmacist Recommendations 

  • For immediate relief, apply a numbing gel such as Orajel®, Anbesol®, or Benzodent® directly to the sore.

  • A protective paste may be used to shield against irritation.

  • Antiseptic rinses to reduce bacteria and promote healing.

  • For dental pain or swelling, ibuprofen (Advil®) is the first choice—always take with food. If you cannot take it, Tylenol provides safe, effective pain relief.

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You may also want to visit:

​Headache & Pain Relief 

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