By Reno Laser Dentistry
January 17, 2012
Category: dental reno

So what’s worse waking up with a canker sore or a cold sore? Do you really know the difference between a canker sore and a cold sore? The one thing that most people do know is that they both are very uncomfortable, no fun to deal with.

According to the editors at the American Dental Association, “Canker sores and cold sores are the most common types of mouth sores.

Painful open sores and lesions in the mouth aren’t just annoying–they could be a symptom of a serious disease or disorder. See your dentist for any mouth sore that lasts longer than a week.

Canker sores are small ulcers with a white or gray base and a red border that aren’t contagious and appear inside the mouth. The exact cause of canker sores is unknown but some experts believe they are caused by immune system problems. Canker sores can be triggered by a viral infection, fatigue, stress or allergies. If you suffer from canker sores, over-the-counter topical anesthetics and antimicrobial mouthrinses may provide temporary relief. It’s also helpful to stay away from hot, spicy or acidic foods that can irritate the sore. See your dentist if your canker sores do not heal in a week or are painful.

Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are found outside the mouth and often erupt around the lips and sometimes under the nose or around the chin. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 and are very contagious. Once a person is infected with primary herpes, the virus stays in the body and causes occasional attacks. A dentist can prescribe antiviral drugs to help speed up healing.”

You can read the full article at http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2011/article/ADA-02-Canker-sores-cold-sores-and-more.cvsp

Any symptom or symptoms that are consistent should be of concern and should be evaluated by your dental professional.

Contact Dr. McElhinney’s dental practice located in Reno with any questions or to set-up an appointment.

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