94% of the general population has the oral type of herpes which causes "cold sores" on the
outside of the lips during stress or physical illness. Contrary to popular belief, canker sores, which
appear inside the mouth, tongue or palate, are not caused by the herpes virus. Canker sores are
hypersensitivity reactions to local injury or certain foods. Herpes can occur on the soft palate and looks
suspiciously similar to canker sore with the exception of a red halo around the white ulcer.

               Genital Herpes virus is sexually transmitted and is characterized by recurring ulcers on
the genitals lasting about one week. The frequency of recurrence decreases with time until in many
cases a spontaneous cure takes place. Frequent recurrences require therapy with maintenance
suppressive medications taken daily for up to 2 years.

                Both types of Herpes viruses may occur in locations other than the mouth or genitals.
The most serious being in or around the eye. Herpes keratitis is the infection of the cornea, which
if not treated early and aggressively, can lead to blindness. It is critical to keep your hands away
from your face or eyes during outbreaks of oral or genital herpes.

                Canker sores are treated with a topical steroid preparation in a dental paste.