Difference Between Cold Sores and Canker Sores

There are different types of sores that can appear on the body. Since many of the sores look similar, it is easy for them to be mistaken for one another. Two of the most common types of sores that can be visible are canker sores and cold sores. It is important to know that they are not one in the same. The only way to treat each sore properly and to ensure that it heals in the shortest amount of time possible is to make sure that you can identify each accurately. This means that you need to know what makes a canker sore unique from a cold sore. This can be done by being familiar with the differences between canker sores and cold sores. Here are some of the differences between canker sores and cold sores.

Part of the Mouth

The biggest distinguishing factor between the two types of sores is where they appear in the mouth. Each type typically will be visible in different parts of the mouth. This means that the canker sore is most likely found inside the mouth. This means that if you have a sore that is an ulcerated part of the inside of the mouth, this is a canker sore. A cold sore is a sore that is typically visible on the outside of the mouth. This means that the location of the sore can often be a giveaway of the type that it is. The only tricky part is when a cold sore appears to be inside of the mouth. This can make it more difficult to differentiate from a canker sore.

Canker Sore Types

It is also important to note that when you are dealing with a canker sore, you can be dealing with two different types. The most common types of canker sores are known as simple or complex. This means that not all canker sores are one in the same. The simple canker sores only last for a short period of time, but complex canker sores are long lasting and can often return. This means that you need to get complex canker sores diagnosed properly, so that you will not have to deal with them on the inside of your mouth for long periods of time. Canker sores can be more painful than cold sores because they are present on the inside of your mouth and can become irritated when you eat or drink.

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