Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, can develop in any part of the mouth, gums or inside of the cheeks. Generally, the sores are not contagious and can be caused by a number of things. Emotional stress, certain medications, hormonal changes, food allergies and medical problems can all lead to canker sores. Also, minor injuries to the mouth tissues when you are brushing your teeth, an accidental bite to the inside of your cheek while sleeping or eating can also lead to canker sores. Researchers have also reported that family history and the lack of certain vitamins and minerals in your daily diet, can result to reoccurring canker sores.
However, canker sores (mouth ulcers) are often confused with cold sores (fever blisters). Both of these sores share some similar symptoms and usually occur near the same location. The only problem here is that cold sores (fever blisters) are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). They (cold sores) are highly contagious and can be passed along through kissing or sharing eating utensils.
Well, as we continue through this article, I will show how to differentiate between canker sores, also known as mouth ulcers, and cold sores, also known as fever blisters. They may appear to be similar, but they are not the same. Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are not contagious, but they can be very painful.
What Canker sores looks like
During diagnosis of mouth ulcers or canker sores, biopsy or culturing are not always necessary since doctors and dentists can easily identify them via physical examination. Mouth ulcers or canker sores are usually identified using their appearance, their location and the type of tissue on which they have formed.
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, can appear suddenly without any visible symptoms. The earliest sign of canker sore development is a tingling, burning, or numb sensation in the affected area. Fully developed canker sores are typically white or yellow in the center, surrounded by red, inflamed soft tissue. They are usually painful, shallow, and less than 1 mm in size but can enlarge to ½ to 1 inch in diameter.
However, it’s important to know that canker sores, also known as mouth ulcers or stomatitis, only occur inside the mouth. Cold sores, also called fever blisters, on the other hand, occur on the outside of the mouth, usually on the face, outside the lips, and on the nose. Both can be painful ulcers.
Cold Sores Pictures
Cold sores, also known as fever ulcers or stomatitis, are highly contagious and caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). These red, fluid-filled blisters typically cluster in groups and are commonly found outside of the mouth, around the lips and nose. Outbreaks can be triggered by stress, fatigue, injury, or exposure to extreme conditions.
Cold sores on nose
Canker Sores Pictures
The exact cause of canker sores is not clearly defined. Although, it can be triggered by emotional stress, weakened immune system, hormonal changes, oral trauma, nutritional deficiencies, allergies and certain health problems. They appear as small open sores with white, yellow or gray center and bright red border. They can also appear in groups or singly. These sores can develop inside of the lips and cheeks, the floor of the mouth, the tip or underside of the tongue, soft palate and gums.
Learn more on – Treatments for canker sores.