Canker Sores vs Cold Sores: What's the Difference? | Mint Hill Smiles

Canker sores and cold sores are frequently confused because both are painful sores in or around the mouth,

but they are completely different conditions with different causes and different treatments. Knowing which one you have helps you manage it correctly.

Canker Sores

A canker sore is a small, shallow ulcer that develops inside the mouth, on the soft tissues like the inside of the lips and cheeks, the tongue, or the base of the gums. They are usually round or oval with a white or yellowish center and a red border. Canker sores are not contagious. Their exact cause is not fully understood, but triggers include minor injury to the mouth, acidic or spicy foods, stress, hormonal changes, and certain nutritional deficiencies. Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks.

Cold Sores

A cold sore, also called a fever blister, is caused by the herpes simplex virus and is contagious. Unlike canker sores, cold sores typically appear outside the mouth, usually on or around the lips, as a cluster of small fluid-filled blisters that later crust over. They often begin with a tingling or burning sensation before the blister appears. Once you have the virus it stays in your body and can reactivate, often triggered by stress, illness, sun exposure, or fatigue.

When to See Us

Most canker sores and cold sores resolve on their own. However, you should have a sore evaluated if it is unusually large, lasts longer than two weeks, recurs frequently, or is severe enough to interfere with eating or drinking. A sore that does not heal is always worth having checked. For frequent or severe cold sores, antiviral medication can help, and for painful canker sores, we can recommend products that ease discomfort and speed healing.

Call (704) 323-7577 if you have a sore that is not healing.

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What's the difference between a canker sore and a cold sore?

A canker sore is a non-contagious ulcer inside the mouth with no known viral cause. A cold sore is caused by the contagious herpes simplex virus and typically appears outside the mouth, on or around the lips, as fluid-filled blisters.

Are canker sores contagious?

No. Canker sores are not contagious. They occur inside the mouth and are not caused by a virus. Cold sores, on the other hand, are caused by a contagious virus.

How long do canker sores and cold sores last?

Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks. Cold sores typically heal within two to three weeks. A sore that lasts longer than two weeks or does not heal should be evaluated.

When should I see a dentist about a mouth sore?

Have a sore evaluated if it is unusually large, lasts longer than two weeks, recurs frequently, or interferes with eating and drinking. Any sore that does not heal is worth having checked.

Ready for some answers?

We serve patients from Mint Hill, Matthews, Indian Trail, Stallings, Weddington, Midland, Albemarle, and southeast Charlotte, NC. We accept most major insurance plans including Delta Dental, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and United Healthcare. If you do not have insurance, our Brush365 membership plan was built for you.

Call (704) 323-7577 or visit minthillsmiles.dentist to book your first appointment. We are at 11300 Cresthill Drive, Suite 105, Mint Hill, NC 28227.

Come see us. We think you will feel the difference.