Rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water) several times daily
Use an over-the-counter numbing gel or liquid (benzocaine or similar) as directed
Use over-the-counter mouth rinses for mouth ulcers (e.g., hydrogen peroxide-based or antiseptic rinses) as directed
Apply a protective paste or film (e.g., benzocaine protective paste or other ulcer-covering products) as directed
Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain relief (ibuprofen or naproxen) if you can take them safely
Consider acetaminophen for pain if you can’t take NSAIDs
Avoid spicy, acidic, salty, or very hot foods and drinks
Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes
Use a soft toothbrush and brush gently
Try soothing foods (cool yogurt, smoothies, oatmeal, mashed foods)
Maintain good oral hygiene and floss gently
Stay hydrated
If persistent or severe, ask a dentist or doctor about prescription treatments (topical corticosteroids, medicated mouth rinses, or other options)
Seek urgent care if you have fever, trouble swallowing, rapidly worsening pain, large ulcers, ulcers lasting longer than 2 weeks, or frequent recurrences