Healthy Mouth-Healthy Body: Insights by Donna Grzegorek BS, RDH, PHDH, FADHA
Healthy Mouth-Healthy Body: Insights by Donna
- Insights into oral health: Articles that explain how oral hygiene impacts different body systems.
- Practical tips: Simple and actionable advice to improve your dental care routine.
- Expert opinions: Insights from dentists, doctors, and wellness professionals drawing the connection between oral and general health.
- Stress and hormonal fluctuations
- Injury to the mouth (e.g., biting the cheek, dental work)
- Food sensitivities (e.g., acidic or spicy foods)
- Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., iron, vitamin B12)
- Underlying health conditions (e.g., autoimmune disorders)
- Round or oval-shaped lesions with a white or yellow center and a red border
- Burning or tingling sensation before the appearance of the sore
- Pain and discomfort, particularly when eating, drinking, or speaking
- Over-the-counter topical ointments and gels
- Antimicrobial mouthwashes- like Listerine
- Prescription medications for severe cases
- Avoiding trigger foods and maintaining good oral hygiene
CANKER SORE – (NOT CONTAGIOUS)
Cold Sores
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Unlike canker sores, cold sores are highly contagious and typically appear outside the mouth, around the lips, and occasionally on the nose or chin.
Causes
Cold sores are primarily caused by HSV-1, though HSV-2 can also lead to outbreaks. The virus lies dormant in the body and can be triggered by:
- Stress and illness
- Sun exposure
- Hormonal changes
- Weakened immune system
Symptoms
Cold sores go through several stages:
- Tingling or itching sensation around the lips
- Small, fluid-filled blisters that cluster together- (contagious stage)
- Blisters that rupture and form a crust
- Pain and discomfort, particularly during the blistering stage
Treatment
While there is no cure for cold sores, treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the duration of outbreaks:
- Antiviral medications (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir)
- Over-the-counter creams and ointments
- Cold compresses to alleviate pain
- Avoiding triggers and maintaining a healthy lifestyle
WHEN COLD CORES ARE IN THE BLISTERING (VESICLE) STAGE, YOUR DENTAL APPOINTMENT MUST BE POSTPONED. This is the most contagious stage of a cold sore. If the blisters are leaking, the fluid is very contagious. In this stage, the lesion can be easily spread to other areas of your face. Additionally, if the liquid becomes aerosolized and contaminates your eyes or those of a team member, blindness can occur. If you present with a lesion in this stage, please understand your appointment will be rescheduled for your safety and the safety of others.

If you suffer from the recurrence of cold sores, have a lesion, and are not sure if you should be treated on an appointment day, please contact our office. We will guide you through the evaluation process. At times, your appointment may need to be rescheduled. Please understand that your safety is our priority.
COLD SORE-HERPETIC LESION - (CONTAGIOUS)
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between canker sores, aphthous ulcers, and cold sores is essential for effective management and treatment. While canker sores and aphthous ulcers are non-contagious lesions that occur inside the mouth, cold sores are contagious blisters caused by HSV that typically appear outside the mouth. By recognizing their unique characteristics, triggers, and treatments, you can take appropriate steps to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
As always, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. 847-382-5511

Donna Grzegorek BS, PHDH,FADHA
Registered Dental Hygienist
Share On: