Canker Sores & Mouth Ulcers
Over the counter relief options
Having Canker sores or mouth ulcers?
Canker sores and mouth ulcers are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth, commonly on the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or gums. They are not contagious but can make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable.
Triggers may include stress, minor mouth injuries, acidic or spicy foods, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes, or irritation from dental products.
Treatment focuses on reducing pain, protecting the sore while it heals, and preventing further irritation. Products are intended to help relief the sore, cover it or to provide sensitive mouth rinses, and cleaning tools.
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Pharmacist-recommended products​​
The following are the recommended products for sores and ulcers with convenient Amazon links. If you opt to purchase through, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.
Colgate® Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouth Rinse
Pro tips and selection criteria​
Choosing the right product is based on symptoms, indication or other factors that you need to consider to achieve the best relief results.​
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Oral Pain Relief Gels & Liquids​
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Orajel® Mouth Sore Gel
Orajel® Mouth Sore Gel contains benzocaine, a topical oral anesthetic that temporarily numbs pain caused by canker sores, mouth ulcers, and minor oral irritation. It provides fast, localized relief, helping reduce discomfort during eating, drinking, and talking. This product is best suited for short-term, targeted pain control rather than ongoing treatment.
Tip: Apply a small amount directly to the sore using a clean finger or cotton swab. Avoid eating or drinking for 15–30 minutes after application to allow the numbing effect to last longer, and use only as directed to prevent irritation.
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Anbesol® Oral Pain Relief Gel
Anbesol® Oral Pain Relief Gel provides fast-acting relief from mouth pain using benzocaine, a topical oral anesthetic available in gel or liquid form. The built-in applicator allows precise placement directly onto the sore, making it especially useful for hard-to-reach areas or spots that are highly sensitive, such as canker sores or mouth ulcers.
Tip: Apply a small amount directly to the affected area using the applicator or a clean cotton swab. Avoid eating or drinking for 15–30 minutes after application to prolong numbing effects, and use only as directed for short-term pain relief.
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Protective & Healing Mouth Rinses​​
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Colgate® Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouth Rinse
Colgate® Peroxyl is an antiseptic mouth rinse containing hydrogen peroxide that helps gently cleanse mouth sores, remove debris, and support the mouth’s natural healing process. It is especially useful for keeping irritated areas clean after meals and reducing discomfort from canker sores, minor oral wounds, or irritation from dental appliances.
Tip: Rinse gently for the recommended time after meals and before bedtime, then spit out—do not swallow. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes afterward to allow the cleansing action to work effectively. Use short term, as directed, during active sores or irritation.
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CloSYS® Sensitive Mouth Rinse
CloSYS® is an alcohol-free oral rinse formulated with stabilized chlorine dioxide, which helps neutralize bacteria and odor-causing compounds while soothing irritated oral tissues. Its non-burning, gentle formula makes it suitable for sensitive mouths, mouth sores, gum irritation, and frequent daily use.
Tip: Use twice daily or as needed, swishing gently for the recommended time. Avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes afterward to allow the rinse to work effectively, especially during active mouth irritation or sores.
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Gentle Oral Care Products​
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Soft-Bristle Toothbrush
Soft-bristle toothbrushes effectively clean teeth while minimizing trauma to sensitive oral tissues and active mouth sores. They help remove plaque and food debris without worsening irritation, making them ideal during periods of mouth soreness or inflammation.
Tip: Brush gently using light pressure and small circular motions, and consider moistening the bristles with warm water before brushing to further soften them and reduce discomfort.
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Sensitive Toothpastes
Sensitive toothpaste formulas gently clean teeth while helping reduce irritation during active mouth sores or oral sensitivity. Their mild ingredients and lower abrasiveness support daily oral hygiene without aggravating sore areas, allowing comfort to be maintained while healing occurs.
Tip: Use a small amount and brush gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Avoid whitening or strongly flavored toothpastes during flare-ups, as they may increase irritation.
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Expert Recommendations
Choosing the right product depends on pain severity and the location of the sore:
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For immediate pain relief: Use oral numbing gels or liquids such as Orajel or Anbesol, which contain topical anesthetics to temporarily numb pain and make eating, drinking, and talking more comfortable.
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For healing support and cleanliness: Use antiseptic rinses like Colgate Peroxyl or gentle, non-burning rinses such as CloSYS to keep sores clean, reduce bacteria, and support natural healing.
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For prevention of further irritation: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild or sensitive toothpaste to maintain oral hygiene without aggravating sore or inflamed tissue.
Tip: Most canker sores heal within 7–14 days. If sores are unusually large, very painful, persistent, or frequently recurring, consult a dentist or healthcare provider for further evaluation.
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You may also want to visit:
Gum Irritation and Gingivitis
​Back to Mouth and Dental Care Hub
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