How should baking soda be used to alleviate canker sore pain?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

A baking soda rinse can help relieve canker sore pain by neutralizing acids in the mouth and reducing irritation. To make one, dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in ½ cup of warm water, swish for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat a few times daily for soothing relief and faster healing.

Canker sores can have many underlying causes, from nutritional deficiencies to stress or immune-related conditions. If yours are frequent, painful, or slow to heal, it's worth understanding why. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to help identify possible causes and guide your next steps with confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover likely causes of canker sore pain Learn if baking soda helps your mouth sores See if your canker sore needs care Find OTC pain relief for mouth sores Find a doctor for canker sore treatment Discover home remedies for canker sore relief Understand if mouth sores need urgent care

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Explanation

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, can be used to help ease the pain of canker sores. It works by neutralizing acids and balancing the pH in your mouth, which can help reduce irritation and promote healing.

To use baking soda for canker sores, you can make a simple mouth rinse:

Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 cup of warm water.
Stir well until the baking soda is fully dissolved.
Rinse your mouth with the solution for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.
Repeat this process several times a day as needed, especially after meals and before bed.

This rinse can help soothe the sore area and may also help prevent further irritation from food or drinks. Remember, while baking soda can offer relief, it is not a cure for canker sores. If your sores persist or worsen, you can use our free AI symptom checker to better understand your symptoms and determine whether you should consult a healthcare professional for further advice.

(References)

MacDonald J. (2002). Canker sore remedies: baking soda. CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l'Association medicale canadienne, 11949979.
Watt BE, Proudfoot AT, & Vale JA. (2004). Hydrogen peroxide poisoning. Toxicological reviews, 15298493.

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