Understanding What Is in the Gel for Mouth Ulcers?

October 8, 2025 •

4 min read

While most mouth ulcers, or canker sores, heal naturally, the pain and discomfort can be significant enough to disrupt daily activities. Understanding what is in the gel for mouth ulcers can help you choose the most effective product to numb the pain and speed up the healing process. Different active ingredients work in various ways, from providing instant numbing relief to protecting the sore from further irritation.

Quick Summary

This article explores the key active and inactive ingredients commonly found in over-the-counter mouth ulcer gels. It details how topical anesthetics, antiseptics, and protective agents work together to manage pain and promote the healing of mouth sores. A comparative look at popular formulations reveals the diverse approaches to treating oral irritations effectively.

Key Points

Local Anesthetics for Pain Relief: Gels commonly contain anesthetics like benzocaine or lidocaine that numb the affected area for immediate, temporary pain relief.
Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients: Compounds such as choline salicylate are included to reduce both the pain and swelling associated with mouth ulcers.
Protective and Healing Components: Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and zinc chloride create a protective barrier over the ulcer, shielding it from irritation and promoting faster tissue healing.
Antiseptic Action: Antiseptics such as benzalkonium chloride or hydrogen peroxide are used to cleanse the sore and prevent secondary infection.
Choosing the Right Gel: Product choice depends on the specific need, such as location and number of ulcers, as well as considering any potential allergies to active ingredients.
Check Age Restrictions: Some gels, particularly those with higher concentrations of benzocaine, are not suitable for very young children and have specific age recommendations.

Core Active Ingredients for Pain and Healing

Over-the-counter mouth ulcer gels are formulated with a combination of active and inactive ingredients, each serving a specific purpose. The active ingredients are responsible for the therapeutic effect, providing temporary relief from pain and inflammation while addressing the underlying issues causing the mouth ulcer.

Local Anesthetics: Numbing the Pain

Local anesthetics are a primary component in many mouth ulcer gels, providing fast-acting relief from discomfort. These ingredients work by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the affected area, which dulls the pain sensations.

Benzocaine: A widely used topical anesthetic, benzocaine is available in various strengths and is a common ingredient in many popular oral pain relief products like Orajel and Anbesol. It is applied directly to the sore to provide instant, temporary numbing. However, products with high concentrations should be used with caution and as directed, especially for young children.
Lidocaine: Another powerful local anesthetic, lidocaine is found in some mouth ulcer treatments, available as gels, ointments, and sprays. Similar to benzocaine, it works by numbing the nerve endings to alleviate pain from ulcers and other oral irritations.

Anti-inflammatory and Healing Agents

Beyond just numbing, some gels include ingredients that help reduce inflammation and promote the natural healing of the tissue.

Choline Salicylate: A derivative of salicylic acid, this non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) helps reduce pain and inflammation. It works by inhibiting chemical messengers called prostaglandins that cause pain and swelling at the site of the injury.
Hyaluronic Acid (Hyaluronan): Found in the Gengigel brand, this naturally occurring compound aids in tissue regeneration and healing. It creates a protective layer over the sore, controls inflammation, and helps tissue grow back faster, which can shorten the healing time of the ulcer.
Allantoin: Often listed as an inactive ingredient, allantoin influences cellular responses positively and promotes the healing of oral mucosa.

Antiseptics and Astringents: Protecting the Sore

To prevent further irritation and potential infection, mouth ulcer gels often contain antiseptic and astringent ingredients.

Benzalkonium Chloride: This is an antiseptic agent included in some gels to help prevent infection in minor oral irritations. It helps to keep the wound clean and free from harmful bacteria.
Zinc Chloride: Used as an astringent, zinc chloride helps to protect the sore by narrowing the blood vessels in the affected area and creating a protective layer. This can help shield the ulcer from irritants and further damage.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Oxygenating mouth rinses and gels, such as Colgate Peroxyl, use hydrogen peroxide to help cleanse the oral wound and remove debris, facilitating the healing process.

The Role of Inactive Ingredients

Inactive ingredients make up the bulk of the gel and ensure the product is effective, safe, and pleasant to use. These include:

Thickeners and Gelling Agents: Ingredients like carbomer and cellulose gum give the gel its consistency, helping it adhere to the ulcer and form a protective barrier.
Flavoring Agents: Additives like peppermint oil or sodium saccharin are used to improve the taste and mask the potentially bitter or unpleasant flavor of the active ingredients.
Humectants: Agents like propylene glycol and glycerin help the gel retain moisture, which ensures a smooth texture and helps it stay on the oral mucosa.

Comparison of Common Mouth Ulcer Gel Ingredients


Ingredient Category	Example	Primary Function	Additional Benefits	Potential Drawbacks
Local Anesthetic	Benzocaine	Provides fast-acting numbing relief from pain.	Offers quick symptom relief.	Not for children under 2 years; risks like methemoglobinemia with overuse.
Local Anesthetic	Lidocaine	Numbs the area to stop pain signals.	Can be suitable for some children; generally safe.	Numbing sensation can lead to biting tongue/cheek.
Anti-inflammatory	Choline Salicylate	Reduces swelling and pain.	Addresses underlying inflammation, not just symptoms.	Should not be used for more than 7 days without doctor advice.
Protective/Healing	Hyaluronic Acid	Accelerates tissue healing and creates a barrier.	Promotes natural recovery; few side effects.	Less immediate pain relief compared to anesthetics.
Antiseptic	Benzalkonium Chloride	Cleanses the sore and prevents infection.	Helps facilitate a healthier healing environment.	Can cause irritation in some sensitive individuals.
Astringent	Zinc Chloride	Dries out the sore and protects it.	Shields the ulcer from external irritants.	Can cause a temporary stinging sensation.

How to Choose the Right Mouth Ulcer Gel

Choosing the best gel depends on your specific needs, such as the location and severity of the ulcer and your desired effect.

Factors to consider when buying:

Sore Location: For hard-to-reach areas, a gel with a long applicator or a spray is ideal.
Multiple Sores: A mouthwash is a better option for treating multiple canker sores across the mouth.
Primary Symptom: If your main concern is pain, a gel with a high concentration of an anesthetic like benzocaine is most direct. If you want to accelerate healing, a gel with hyaluronic acid or allantoin might be better.
Ingredient Sensitivity: Always check the label for potential allergens. For example, some individuals may have a history of allergy to certain local anesthetics.
Age: Certain products are not suitable for young children, so always check the product's age recommendations.

Other Oral Health Habits

Alongside using a mouth ulcer gel, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. This includes brushing after meals and flossing regularly. Avoiding acidic, spicy, or fried foods can also prevent further irritation and aid healing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding what is in the gel for mouth ulcers reveals a strategic combination of ingredients designed to tackle pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. From potent local anesthetics like benzocaine to protective and regenerative agents like hyaluronic acid and astringents, these gels offer targeted relief. By considering your primary symptoms and individual needs, you can select the most appropriate product to effectively manage discomfort and speed up your recovery from mouth sores. Always read the product label carefully and consult a pharmacist or doctor for guidance, especially for severe or persistent ulcers.

An excellent example of authoritative information on oral health can be found on the Cleveland Clinic website.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main active ingredients in mouth ulcer gels typically include a local anesthetic for pain relief (like benzocaine or lidocaine), and sometimes an antiseptic (like benzalkonium chloride) and an astringent (like zinc chloride) to protect the sore from irritation and infection.

Mouth ulcer gels relieve pain by applying topical anesthetics directly to the sore. These agents block the pain signals from the nerves to the brain, providing a numbing effect that helps reduce discomfort.

Safety depends on the specific product and a child's age. Some adult-strength gels with high concentrations of benzocaine are not recommended for young children, especially those under 2 years old, due to risks like methemoglobinemia. Always check the product label for age suitability and consult a doctor or dentist if unsure.

The frequency of application varies by product. Generally, it can be applied up to 4 times daily, or as directed by a dentist or doctor. It is important not to use more than directed and not for longer than 7 days unless advised by a healthcare professional.

While many gels aid healing by protecting the sore and preventing infection, some include specific ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, that are known to actively accelerate the tissue regeneration process. The primary function of most over-the-counter gels is pain relief and protection rather than rapid healing.

If a gel causes increased irritation, pain, swelling, or redness, you should stop using the product immediately. An allergic reaction to one of the ingredients may be occurring. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.

It is generally recommended to avoid eating and drinking for about 30 to 60 minutes after applying the gel. This allows the product to form a protective barrier and for the active ingredients to be absorbed effectively without being washed away.