I have herpes simplex 1 and get cold sores on my tongue and inside cheeks can i use the same over-the-counter products as i would for a lip cold sore?

Talk to a doctor: Talk to a doctor and see about getting acyclovir, famvir, or valtrex (valacyclovir).

May be oral aphthae: Herpes inside the mouth is uncommon. Oral aphthous ulcers are much more likely. The cause of oral aphthae is not known; sometimes oral ulcers are associated with other diseases or with systemic medication. There is no standard (nor very successful!) treatment for oral aphthous ulcers. Check with your doctor to see if he or she can make a more definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.

Prevention: Canker sore or more specifically aphthous ulcer can be prevented by avoiding a common foam detergent found in most toothpastes called sodium laurel sulfate. Switching to biotene or other toothpaste not containing this ingredient can be the cure in preventing this painful condition. During an episode, 2000 mg of lysine in divided doses per day can decrease the symptoms and time involved to heal.