What's the Difference Between Canker Sores and Cold Sores?
Posted on 10/1/2025 by Stansell Dentistry Associates |
 Have you ever had a painful sore in your mouth that made eating and talking uncomfortable? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people experience mouth sores each year. But with two common types of sores – canker sores and cold sores – it can be confusing to tell them apart. Understanding the differences between these sores can help you manage them effectively and find relief faster.
Canker Sores
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, round or oval sores that appear inside the mouth, usually on the soft tissues like the inside of your lips or cheeks, under your tongue, or on the soft palate. They can be quite painful, making it difficult to eat, drink, or even talk. Canker sores are not contagious and typically heal within a week or two without leaving any scars.
Cold Sores
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are fluid-filled blisters that appear on the lips or around the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and are highly contagious. Cold sores usually start as a tingling or burning sensation, followed by the development of small blisters that eventually burst and form a crust. They can be painful and take up to two weeks to heal completely.
Key Differences
While both canker sores and cold sores can be painful, there are some key differences between them:
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Cause: Canker sores are caused by a variety of factors, including stress, injury, certain foods, and hormonal changes. Cold sores, on the other hand, are caused by the herpes simplex virus. |
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Appearance: Canker sores are typically small, round or oval with a white or yellowish center and a red border. Cold sores start as small blisters that eventually burst and form a crust. |
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Location: Canker sores appear inside the mouth, while cold sores appear on the lips or around the mouth. |
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Contagiousness: Canker sores are not contagious, while cold sores are highly contagious. |
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Healing time: Canker sores usually heal within a week or two, while cold sores can take up to two weeks to heal completely. |
Treatment
There is no cure for either canker sores or cold sores, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms and speed up healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce discomfort. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also provide some relief. For cold sores, antiviral medications can be prescribed to shorten the duration of the outbreak.
Prevention
There are a few things you can do to prevent canker sores and cold sores:
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For canker sores: Avoid foods that trigger outbreaks, such as acidic fruits and vegetables, nuts, and chocolate. Manage stress levels and get enough sleep. |
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For cold sores: Avoid close contact with people who have cold sores. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. There are also antiviral medications that can be taken to suppress the virus and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. |
When to See a Dentist
If you have a mouth sore that is severe, doesn't heal within two weeks, or you're experiencing other symptoms, such as fever or swollen lymph nodes, it's important to see a dentist. They can diagnose the cause of your sore and recommend the appropriate treatment.
By understanding the differences between canker sores and cold sores, you can better manage them and find relief faster. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to consult your dentist.
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