Canker Sore vs. Cold Sore

Many people get confused about the difference between a canker sore and a cold sore. There are very distinct differences between the two that are important to understand. We are going to explain the main differences between cold sores vs. canker sores.

What is the difference?

To clear this up, the easiest way to tell the difference between a canker sore and a cold sore is the location. Canker sores only form on the inside of your mouth in areas such as your tongue, cheek, inner lip, and throat. They can form anywhere on soft tissue in the inside of your mouth. They are typically round with a whiteish yellow surface surrounded by an inflamed red area.

Cold sores on the other hand occur on the outside of your mouth and on your lips. They are a cluster of blisters that are clear at first and then become cloudy [1]. While it is technically possible for cold sores to appear on the inside of your mouth, it is extremely rare. Cold sores are painful blisters filled with fluid. Cold sores are develop because of infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

See Also: Top 5 OTC Treatments For Canker Sores

Are Canker Sores Contagious?

No, canker sores are not contagious, so you do not need to worry about spreading them to other people.

Are Cold Sores Contagious?

Yes, cold sores are extremely contagious. They are most contagious when oozing sores are present, however they can be spread even when they are not[2].

How To Treat A Canker Sore

There are a variety of ways to treat a canker sore from home remedies to the best products for canker sores. Treatment can significantly speed up healing time especially if it is caught early on. In addition it is important to understand the causes of canker sore outbreaks in order to learn how to prevent them from occurring in the first place.