Among conditions affecting the mouth and lip, it’s not uncommon to see either canker sores (mouth ulcers) or herpes labialis, commonly known as cold sores. It can be difficult to distinguish the two, since they’re both painful, but it’s important to differentiate them in order to treat them appropriately.

Canker sores occur more often inside the mouth, on the cheeks or lips, or under the tongue. There’s no exact cause for mouth ulcers, but they can occur when you’re under a great deal of stress, or if the tissues of the mouth have been injured. Mouth ulcers are not contagious and are not caused by a virus. They usually look like small, round lesions with a white, yellow or gray center and a bright red outline. These lesions usually heal on their own, but topical anti-inflammatory medication can be applied to soothe the pain.

Cold sores, or herpes labialis, appear on the inside or outside of the mouth, more precisely near the lips or nose. They are caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which lies dormant in the immune system. Eruptions are triggered by stress, fatigue or injury. Cold sores look like red blisters containing liquid. As this liquid is contagious, skin-to-skin contact with a person with an active cold sore can spread the virus. These lesions are best treated with anti-viral tablets.

Canker sores and cold sores are similar conditions that both cause discomfort in the mouth, but they need to be distinguished in order to be better treated. Note that if the mouth lesion does not heal after two weeks, causes extreme difficulty in eating or drinking, or is accompanied by a high fever, it is advisable to consult your dentist. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Clinique dentaire Beaulieu, Lapointe et associés!