Mouth ulcers aren’t contagious and usually go away within one to two weeks. However, if you get a canker sore that is large or extremely painful, or if it lasts for a long time without healing, you should seek the advice of a doctor.
There are three types of canker sores: minor, major, and herpetiform. Minor canker sores are small oval or round ulcers that heal within one to two weeks with no scarring. Major canker sores are larger and deeper than minor ones. Major canker sores are larger and deeper than minor ones. They have irregular edges and can take up to six weeks to heal. Major mouth ulcers can result in long-term scarring.
Herpetiform canker sores are pinpoint size, occur in clusters of 10 to 100, and often affect adults. This type of mouth ulcer has irregular edges and will often heal without scarring within one to two weeks.
You should see a doctor if you develop any of the following:
unusually large mouth ulcers.
new mouth ulcers before the old ones heal.
sores that persist more than three weeks.
sores that are painless.
mouth ulcers that extend to the lips.
pain that can’t be controlled with over-the-counter or natural medication.
severe problems eating and drinking.
high fever or diarrhea whenever the canker sores appear.
Your doctor will be able to diagnose mouth ulcers through a visual exam. If you’re having frequent, severe mouth ulcers, you might be tested for other medical conditions.
Most mouth ulcers don’t need treatment. However, if you get mouth ulcers often or they’re extremely painful, a number of treatments can decrease pain and healing time. These include:
1. Using a rinse of saltwater and baking soda.
2. Placing milk of magnesia on the mouth ulcer.
3. Covering mouth ulcers with baking soda paste.
4. Using over-the-counter benzocaine (topical anesthetic) products like Orajel or Anbesol.
5. Applying ice to canker sores.
6. Using a mouth rinse that contains a steroid to reduce pain and swelling.
7. Using topical pastes.
8. Placing damp tea bags on your mouth ulcer.
