Canker Sore (Aphthous Ulcer) Treatment

How to Treat Canker Sores in NYC?

Canker sores — also known as aphthous ulcers — are small but painful lesions that develop inside the mouth. While most canker sores heal on their own in 1–2 weeks, severe or recurrent aphthous stomatitis can interfere with eating, speaking, and overall comfort.

Treatment focuses on relieving pain, speeding up healing, and preventing recurrence. Options include topical gels, medicated rinses, nutritional supplements, and advanced therapies such as Non-Invasive Soft Tissue Diode Laser Treatment. This gentle, in-office procedure promotes rapid healing and provides immediate comfort.

If you live in NYC and struggle with canker sores, schedule a consultation with our team today to discuss your symptoms and receive personalized treatment.

What is a Canker Sore?

A canker sore is a type of mouth ulcer that forms on the soft tissues inside your mouth — such as the inner cheeks, gums, tongue, or soft palate. They appear as round or oval-shaped shallow ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border. Unlike cold sores, they are not contagious and don’t occur on the outer lips.

Canker Sore vs. Cold Sore

Feature	Canker Sore (Aphthous Ulcer)	Cold Sore (Fever Blister)
Cause	Not caused by herpes virus; linked to trauma, stress, nutrition, immune factors	Caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1)
Location	Inside the mouth (inner cheeks, gums, tongue, soft palate)	Outside the mouth (lips, skin around mouth)
Contagious?	No	Yes
Appearance	White or yellow center, red border	Fluid-filled blisters that crust over
Triggers	Stress, hormonal changes, acidic/spicy foods	Illness, stress, sun exposure
Treatment	Topical gels, rinses, laser therapy	Antiviral medications, topical ointments

A close-up of a person’s lips with a visible cold sore on the lower lip. Unlike canker sores, which occur inside the mouth, cold sores are contagious blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus and typically appear on or around the lips.

Who Gets Canker Sores?

Anyone can develop canker sores, but they are more common in:

• Teens and young adults

• Women (due to hormonal fluctuations)

• People with a family history of recurrent ulcers

• Individuals with certain health conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or immune system disorders

Symptoms and Causes of Canker Sores

What are the symptoms of canker sores?

• Round or oval oral ulcers with white/yellow centers

• Tingling or burning sensation before the sore appears

• Canker sore pain while eating, drinking, or talking

• In severe cases: fever, swollen lymph nodes, or feeling unwell

  
  

What causes canker sores?

While the exact cause is unknown, contributing factors include:

• Mouth injury (biting cheek/tongue, ill-fitting dental appliances)

• Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, zinc)

• Certain foods (acidic foods like citrus fruits, spicy foods, salty foods)

• Stress and reduced immune function

• Hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy)

• Sodium lauryl sulfate in some toothpastes

• Underlying health issues (celiac disease, Crohn’s, HIV/AIDS)

• Viral infections — though unlike cold sores, canker sores are not caused by HSV

  
  

How to Diagnose and Test Canker Sores

A doctor or dentist can diagnose canker sores through a physical exam of the mouth’s lining. In severe cases or if sores are frequent, they may recommend blood tests to check for vitamin deficiency, autoimmune conditions, or allergies. If symptoms resemble other oral health issues such as oral cancer or viral infections, further testing may be done to confirm diagnosis.

How to Prevent Canker Sores

While not all canker sores are preventable, you can reduce the risk:

• Maintain good oral hygiene – Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily

• Avoid trigger foods – Limit acidic, spicy, or rough-textured foods

• Manage stress – Use relaxation or stress reduction techniques

• Prevent nutritional deficiencies – Eat a balanced diet or take supplements

• Avoid sodium lauryl sulfate toothpastes if you’re sensitive

• Protect mouth’s lining – Wear mouthguards for sports, address dental appliance irritation

  
  

FAQs

What gets rid of canker sores fast?

Laser therapy is one of the quickest ways to heal and relieve pain from canker sores. Over-the-counter gels, saltwater rinses, and avoiding irritating foods can also help.

What is the best medication for canker sores?

Topical corticosteroids, numbing gels (benzocaine), or prescription mouth rinses can reduce inflammation and pain.

What is a canker sore caused by?

hey may be triggered by mouth injury, certain foods, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes, or immune system imbalances.

Does salt water help canker sore?

Yes, a saltwater rinse can help clean the sore, reduce bacteria, and promote healing.

Sources

1. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Canker Sores. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/canker-sores

2. American Academy of Oral Medicine. Aphthous Ulcers. https://maaom.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=84:canker-sores

   
   

Know more about our Services:

• Learn about Cosmetic Dentistry options to improve smile aesthetics

• Explore Traditional Dentistry for restorative care

• Discover Preventive Care to maintain oral health and avoid future mouth sores