Mouth sores are vexing. They burn when you talk, eat, or even drink water. Two of the most common culprits are canker sores and cold sores. Ironically, they have a similar-sounding name but are quite different ailments. Knowing which one you have helps you decide whether to wait it out or see a professional.
At Berwyn Dental Connection, we want you to be aware of what is happening in your mouth and when to seek help.
What Are Canker Sores?
Aphthous ulcers, or canker sores, appear in the mouth, on the tongue, cheeks, or gums. They are not contagious and will heal on their own within one or two weeks. Researchers blame them on stress, minor injuries (like biting the cheek), hormonal changes, or foods like citrus fruits or hot spicy foods.
They look like small, round ulcers having a yellow or white center and red border. They are painless, but they are tender while eating or brushing teeth.
What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores, or fever blisters, show up on or around your lips and are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). They are contagious, as opposed to canker sores. The first time they occur may be triggered by stress, illness, or sun exposure, and the blisters come back periodically because the virus stays in your body for your entire life.
They start as pin-and-needle spots which become liquid-filled blisters, which then crust over to heal. Cold sores tend to heal in two to three weeks, but can be spread by close contact.
How to Tell the Difference
It is essential to know the difference between canker sores and cold sores since treatment varies.
- Location: Canker sores stay inside the mouth. Cold sores erupt outside, usually on the lips.
- Cause: Canker sores are not viral. Cold sores are brought on by an infectious virus.
- Appearance: Canker sores are open-mouthed ulcers. Cold sores are clusters of blisters.
If you’re not sure which one you have, visit a dentist in Berwyn for a confirmed diagnosis.
When to See Your Dentist
Most mouth sores heal on their own. But there are times when a call to your top dentist in Berwyn is the right thing to do:
- Pain that lasts for over two weeks
- Multiple sores at one time
- Difficulty eating or drinking
- Sores spreading quickly or frequently recurring
- Fever or tender lymph nodes
A local dentist can check for underlying causes, provide medication, or refer you to a physician as needed.
Treatment and Relief Measures
While waiting for the appointment, try:
- Rinsing with warm saltwater
- Using over-the-counter gels on the top of the sore to ease pain
- Avoiding hot or acidic foods
- Protecting lips from sunlight when getting cold sores
- If bacterial infection or severe pain is a growing issue, professional attention speeds up healing.
Mouth sores may seem minor, but they can signal something more. Knowing the difference between a canker sore and vs. cold sore helps you make the right call.
If pain persists or sores keep coming back, contact Berwyn Dental Connection today. Our team is here to help you stay comfortable, healthy, and confident about your smile.
