Corona Dentists Explain Differences Between Canker and Cold Sores

at Riverside Dental Group will provide you with an overview of more information on cold sores and canker sores.

Cold Sores

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex type 1 virus, which unfortunately means that, yes, they are contagious. People usually acquire the virus in childhood, though it lies dormant most of the time. Cold sores are also known as fever blisters, and tend to occur as a result of stress, though they can also be caused by site-specific trauma to the area. Some people even note cold sores following a dental checkup, due to the physical pressure placed on the surfaces outside of the mouth while teeth are cleaned.

Canker Sores

Alphthous ulcers, more casually referred to as canker sores, appear on the inside of the mouth. These surprisingly painful little mouth lesions generally last for less than two weeks. Due to the discomfort they cause, they can hinder the ability to speak and eat comfortably. They can be found on the soft palate, tongue, inside the lips, inside the cheeks, and on the floor of the mouth. As of now, the exact cause of canker sores has yet to be pin-pointed, but stress and certain foods (particularly citrus or other acidic consumables) tend to make canker sores flare up.

Visit Your Corona Dentists

Any mouth sores that last for more than two weeks, or are particularly painful, should be looked at by a dentist. At Dental Associates of Corona, we offer by calling (951) 273-9580. We serve patients in the 92879 area and surrounding communities.