*clicky* ~`~ Canker Questions ~`~ *clicky*

By the way, canker sores and cold sores (or fever blisters) are NOT the same thing. Canker sores are not contagious, and they appear in the soft tissues of the mouth, while cold sores are contagious and generally appear on the outside of the lips.

My boyfriend's family suffers from cold sores and depending on how bad your own outbreak is, I've seen them last over two weeks! Also, the larger ones do tend to leave scars.

If you suffer from canker sores, try talking to your dentist about medicines. It really does work for the pain. Also, I think over the counter you can get stuff for teething to help with the pain but canker sores almost always go away on their own. Try not to eat any hot or spicy foods, and try and drink through a straw (may be less irritating than drinking from a cup). Cold or frozen foods such as ice pops may help numb the area too.

For a home remedy, combine 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 1 part water. Dab (gently!) on the canker sore with a cotton swab. Follow by dabbing on a little milk of magnesia. Do this three or four times a day to soothe the area and help it heal.

Swishing a sip of warm salt water in your mouth and then spit it out, that can also help soothe the pain. (Add about half a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water.)

I'm not sure if this helps or why you need the info. but good luck!