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What is the difference between a canker sore and a cold sore?

Canker sores and cold sores are common but distinct oral conditions that often get confused. Understanding the difference is key to proper management and prevention.

Canker Sores

Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth on soft tissues like the inner cheeks, tongue, or gums. Unlike cold sores, they are not contagious. The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but they may be triggered by factors like stress, minor injuries (e.g., biting your cheek), acidic or spicy foods, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies such as a lack of vitamin B12, zinc, or iron.

Cold Sores

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). They appear as clusters of fluid-filled blisters on or around the lips and are highly contagious. The virus can be dormant in your body and reactivate due to triggers like stress, illness, sun exposure, or a weakened immune system. Unlike canker sores, cold sores often cause a tingling or burning sensation before they erupt.

Canker sores usually heal on their own within 1-2 weeks. To alleviate discomfort:

Cold Sores:

Cold sores typically resolve in 7-10 days. Treatments include:

If canker sores or cold sores become frequent or unusually severe, consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice. Both conditions can be managed effectively with the right approach, helping you maintain a healthy, comfortable mouth.