Minor Ailments

Canker Sores

Find canker sore relief with soothing treatments and pharmacist advice.

Relief from Canker Sores

Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are small, shallow sores that form inside the mouth on the gums, tongue, cheeks, or lips. They are not contagious and are different from cold sores. While the exact cause is not always clear, triggers include stress, minor mouth injuries, acidic foods, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies. Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks, but treatments can help reduce pain and speed healing.

Recognizing Canker Sores

Canker sores typically appear as round or oval ulcers with a white or yellowish centre and a red border inside the mouth. They can be painful, especially when eating or talking, and may be preceded by a tingling or burning sensation one to two days before the sore appears.

How Your Pharmacist Can Help

Your PharmaChoice pharmacist can recommend topical anesthetics, antiseptic rinses, protective oral gels, or antimicrobial mouthwashes to relieve pain and promote healing. They can also identify potential triggers related to your medications or diet and advise on prevention strategies.

Find Canker Sore Relief Near You

Visit a PharmaChoice pharmacy near you for effective canker sore treatments and helpful pharmacist advice.

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to questions about canker sores, including what causes them, how to treat them, and how to prevent them from coming back.

What is the difference between a canker sore and a cold sore?

Canker sores appear inside the mouth and are not contagious. Cold sores (fever blisters) are caused by the herpes simplex virus and appear on or around the outside of the lips. They are contagious and can recur.

What triggers canker sores?

Common triggers include stress, minor injuries to the mouth (from dental work or accidental biting), acidic or spicy foods, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies (especially B12, folate, or iron), and certain toothpastes containing sodium lauryl sulfate.

How long do canker sores last?

Minor canker sores typically heal within 1–2 weeks without treatment. Larger or more complex sores may take up to 6 weeks and may leave scars. Treatments can help reduce pain and speed healing.

What over-the-counter treatments help canker sores?

Topical anesthetics (such as benzocaine gels), protective oral pastes, antiseptic mouthwashes, and anti-inflammatory rinses can all help reduce pain and promote healing. Ask your pharmacist for a recommendation.

When should I see a doctor about a canker sore?

See a doctor if canker sores are unusually large or painful, last longer than three weeks, are accompanied by fever, or recur very frequently, as these may indicate an underlying health condition.

Get care guidance and treatment support from your pharmacist.

Our pharmacists can assess symptoms and prescribe treatments for minor ailments.