How to Get Rid of Cold Sores on the Tongue

Though often called a cold sore, the sore or lesion on your tongue is technically a canker sore. These sores can occur not just on your tongue, but also on your lips and the inside of your cheeks. When on your tongue, the sore can make it hard to swallow, talk or eat. Canker sores will often heal without treatment after two to three weeks, though afflicted individuals can take steps to expedite the healing process and get rid of the tongue sore faster.

Instructions

• 1

  Smear an over-the-counter canker sore paste onto your tongue sore as soon as you notice it. The active ingredients in these pastes, such as triamcinolone acetonide and fluocinonide, will numb the pain and also help the lesion to heal.

• 2

  Ask your doctor to prescribe to you a dexamethasone or tetracycline mouth rinse. Dexamethasone reduces inflammation of the tongue, while tetracycline is an antibiotic that helps to kill the bacteria in the sore and help it to heal faster.

• 3

  Get an over-the-counter treatment application of Debacterol, a chemical-based cauterizing ointment that instantly seals the sore and helps it to heal without pain or bleeding.

• 4

  Discuss your options with your dentist if you experience regular problems with sores on your tongue. Prescription ointments and solutions can be provided to help with recurring canker sores. Examples include valacyclovir and acyclovir, which can be used to speed healing and reduce outbreaks for individuals who regularly have canker sores.

• 5

  Change your lifestyle. Certain vitamin deficiencies and product use can provoke mouth sores. A vitamin supplementation regimen that contains B vitamins, zinc and folic acid may help. In addition, avoid toothpastes that contain sodium lauryl sulfate, which may irritate the soft tissues in your mouth and cause small cuts that turn into full sores.