Inner mouth sores are irritating and painful. Everything from stress to viral infections to a fractured tooth can cause mouth sores, reports the American Dental Association. Depending on the type of sore and its severity, you can provide initial treatment at home. For a generic canker or cold sore, a basic care regime will heal your mouth within two weeks. See your dentist if the sore becomes worse or does not respond to basic treatment after a few weeks.

Wash your mouth out with a non-alcohol based mouthwash to remove excess bacteria from the surface of the sore.

Apply a topical anesthetic. General oral anesthetics and ointments are available at the drug store. Follow the application regimen specified by your dentist.

Avoid eating spicy, acidic or hot foods. They can aggravate your sore and delay healing.

Tip

  • Apply the topical anesthetic after you have eaten and rinsed for maximum efficacy.

Tip

  • See your doctor immediately if your sore becomes extremely painful, spreads or changes appearance.

SHARE