Canker Sores

What if my child gets Canker Sores?

Canker sores are small ulcers that can appear on the inside of the mouth, gums, or cheeks. They can be painful and make eating or brushing uncomfortable. There are many possible causes such as irritation, minor injuries, or certain foods. Your dentist can help identify possible triggers and suggest ways to reduce them.

Typical Healing

Most canker sores heal on their own within 7–10 days and do not require treatment. Keeping the area clean and avoiding irritation helps speed healing.

At Home Remedies

If your child is having discomfort, you can use over-the-counter gels such as Zilactin-B , which forms a soothing protective layer over the sore. Avoid spicy or acidic foods (like citrus, tomatoes, or vinegar) until the sore has healed.

New In-Office Laser Option

Our office now offers soft-tissue laser therapy to help relieve pain and promote faster healing of canker sores. The laser gently sterilizes the area and seals nerve endings, often reducing pain almost immediately. Treatment is quick, safe, and typically requires no anesthesia. Many children experience noticeable relief the same day.

Things to Consider:

If your child experiences frequent or unusually large canker sores, please discuss with us. Some children are sensitive to ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in toothpaste. An SLS-free fluoride toothpaste, such as CLOSYS, may help and is available online.

**Remember**

Most canker sores are temporary and harmless, but if your child’s sore doesn’t heal within two weeks or keeps returning, schedule a visit so we can help determine the cause and recommend treatment.