While not even remotely closely related canker sores and cold sores are irritating conditions that affect the mouth. No one is really interested in having either one of these common infections. The cause of canker sores is not known, while just about everybody knows that cold sores are the result of an easily communicable virus. Canker sores can’t be passed on to someone else. They do have a few things in common however. Both are located on or in the mouth. Both are painful and unpleasant to deal with, and steps can be taken to try to prevent both.

• Maintain good dental hygiene
• Avoid eating or drinking after other people
• Take care of your overall health

Neither canker sores nor cold sores are linked to poor oral hygiene; however it never hurts to take care of your oral health. In this case it may prevent the cold sore virus from infecting you if you are exposed. In terms of canker sores, good dental hygiene may eliminate the risk by getting rid of any food particles that may irritate the gums or inside of the cheeks, leaving the opportunity for growth wide open. Either way brushing and flossing on a regular basis certainly won’t hurt.

To be perfectly clear canker sores are not contagious. Eating or drinking after another person isn’t a risk for canker sores. Cold sores are a different matter though. The virus that causes these unsightly, unpleasant sores is easily transmitted from person to person through oral contact. Even indirect contact like using the same fork or drinking from the same cup can pass the virus. To be on the safe side, try to avoid this behavior.

Each and every system of our bodies is connected. If one isn’t healthy it can impact how the others respond. For the best way to avoid both canker sores and cold sores, always strive to maintain a good, healthy diet. The nutrients and vitamins found in wholesome foods are instrumental in helping the body fight off infection and illness of every kind. You may want to avoid hard foods like raw vegetables during an outbreak of either sore as it may irritate the lesion further. Other than that, be sure to get all of the vital nutrients your body needs to stay strong.