3. Ice can work, too
Ice is often the go-to treatment for aches and pains, as well as swelling. That’s because ice can reduce inflammation as well as numb the nerve endings in the tissues surrounding the site of pain. As such, ice can be a highly effective way to ease the swelling and the pain that is associated with a canker sore.
Take an ice cube and apply it directly to the canker sore. Leave the ice cube in place until it melts or for as long as you can withstand the coldness. The coldness emitted from the ice cube will quickly reduce blood flow to the affected area, which will help to minimize the swelling and pain that are associated with the canker sore. You should start to feel a significant decrease in the amount of pain you are experiencing within a few minutes after applying the ice.