Rinse with warm salt water several times a day
Use an alcohol-free antiseptic mouth rinse
Apply over-the-counter canker sore gels or ointments
Use a topical oral numbing agent
Avoid spicy, acidic, salty, and crunchy foods
Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush
Use a toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate
Stay hydrated
Suck on ice chips or cold foods
Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
Eat soft, bland foods
Reduce stress
See a dentist or doctor if the sore is large, lasts more than 2 weeks, or keeps returning