What's the Difference Between Canker Sores and Cold Sores?
Posted on 10/15/2024 by Greenway Family Dental
We've all experienced that annoying feeling of a sore in our mouth. But with two common types of sores – canker sores and cold sores – it can be confusing to tell them apart. While they may seem similar, understanding the differences between these sores can help you manage them effectively.
Canker Sores: The Inside Story
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, round or oval sores that develop on the soft tissues inside your mouth. These sores are usually white or yellow in the center with a red border. They can appear alone or in clusters and range in size from a few millimeters to a centimeter.
The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but several factors can contribute to their development, including stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and injuries to the mouth. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious.
Cold Sores: The Outside Threat
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or herpes labialis, are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically develop on the outer edge of the lips. They start as a tingling or burning sensation before progressing to painful blisters that eventually break open and form a crust. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and are highly contagious, especially when the blisters are present.
Spotting the Differences
While both canker sores and cold sores can cause discomfort, several key differences can help you distinguish between them:
Location:
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Canker sores: Develop inside the mouth on the cheeks, tongue, gums, or soft palate.
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Cold sores: Develop outside the mouth on the lips, around the nostrils, or on the chin.
Appearance:
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Canker sores: Round or oval with a white or yellow center and a red border.
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Cold sores: Fluid-filled blisters that eventually break and form a crust.
Cause:
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Canker sores: Unknown, but likely caused by a combination of factors.
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Cold sores: Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1).
Contagiousness:
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Canker sores: Not contagious.
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Cold sores: Highly contagious, especially when the blisters are present.
Managing Canker Sores and Cold Sores
Canker sores:
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Usually heal within one to two weeks without treatment.
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Over-the-counter pain relievers or topical gels can provide relief.
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Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe the sores.
Cold sores:
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Typically heal within two to four weeks without treatment.
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Antiviral medications can shorten the duration of the outbreak.
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Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage the discomfort.
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Avoid touching the sores and wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading the virus.
When to See a Dentist
If you have a sore in your mouth that doesn't heal within two weeks, or if you experience significant pain or discomfort, it's important to see your dentist. They can help diagnose the cause of the sore and recommend the appropriate treatment.
About | Dentist Surprise, AZ | Greenway Family Dental Our dentists Dr. Niel and Dr. Ly are not only the owners, but they are also the day-to-day managers and truly care about their team and patients. Learn more here! Greenway Family Dental, 15409 W Greenway Rd, Suite #100, Surprise, AZ 85374 • (623) 546-3511 • greenwayfamilydentalsurprisearizona.com • 12/9/2024 • Page Phrases: dentist Surprise AZ •
We've all experienced that annoying feeling of a sore in our mouth. But with two common types of sores – canker sores and cold sores – it can be confusing to tell them apart. While they may seem similar, understanding the differences between these sores can help you manage them effectively.