Could probiotics replace steroids for canker sores?

NCT ID NCT07672730

First seen Jun 29, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares a new probiotic gel to a standard steroid gel for treating minor recurrent canker sores—painful mouth ulcers that make eating and talking difficult. Adults with these sores will apply either the probiotic or steroid gel four times daily for up to two weeks. Researchers will measure ulcer size, pain levels, and a molecule in saliva called microRNA-146a that may indicate healing.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Probiotic gel (topical)

What this could lead to

If effective, this probiotic gel could offer a natural alternative to steroids for treating canker sores, potentially with fewer side effects.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase trial with only 42 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The probiotic gel may not work as well as the standard steroid treatment.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for TREATMENT OF MINOR APHTHOUS ULCERS are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

aphthous stomatitis canker sore

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Faculty of Dentistry (Menoufia University and Modern University for Technology and Information (MTI), Egypt).

    Cairo, Egypt