Canker Sores and Mouth Sores
A canker sore is a small, painful ulcer inside the mouth, on the gums, tongue, or inner cheek. Knowing how to get rid of canker sores starts with protecting them from irritation while they heal. Most heal on their own within 1 to 2 weeks.
What Is It
The exact cause is not known, but triggers include small injuries from brushing or biting, stress, acidic or spicy foods, and hormone changes. Some people get them often. Canker sores are not contagious. Cold sores are different, form on the outside of the lips, and are caused by a virus.
Symptoms
- A round, white or yellow sore with a red border
- Burning or tingling before the sore appears
- Pain when eating, drinking, or brushing
- Sores on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks
- One sore or a small cluster
- Healing in 1 to 2 weeks
Not sure it’s a canker sore? Blisters on the outside of the lip are more likely cold sores. Many sores in the mouth with fever in a child may be hand, foot, and mouth disease.
Treatment
At your visit: A provider examines the sores and looks for causes like a viral infection or low vitamin levels. Painful sores may be treated with a numbing rinse or protective paste. Sores lasting more than 2 weeks should be checked.
At home:
- Rinse with warm salt water a few times a day
- Use an over the counter numbing gel
- Avoid spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods
- Use a soft toothbrush
Most canker sores heal within 1 to 2 weeks.
When to Get Care for Mouth Sores
Most mouth sores can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.
FAQ
How do you get rid of a canker sore fast?
The fastest way to get rid of a canker sore is to protect it with numbing gel, rinse with salt water, and avoid spicy or acidic foods. Most heal within 2 weeks.
What causes canker sores?
Canker sores are triggered by small mouth injuries, stress, acidic or spicy foods, and hormone changes. The exact cause is not fully known.
Are canker sores contagious?
No, canker sores are not contagious. Cold sores, which form outside the lips, are contagious. Canker sores cannot spread through kissing or sharing drinks.
What is the difference between a canker sore and a cold sore?
A canker sore forms inside the mouth and is not contagious. A cold sore forms on or around the lips, is caused by a virus, and is contagious.
Can urgent care treat canker sores?
Yes, urgent care can treat painful canker sores. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine the sores and discuss treatment. No appointment or referral is needed.
When should a mouth sore be checked?
A mouth sore should be checked if it lasts more than 2 weeks, is very large, keeps coming back, or comes with fever or trouble eating and drinking.
Last reviewed October 2026
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