Canker sores and cold sores are both painful and irritating, but they are two very different conditions that require different treatments.
- Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) develop inside the mouth and are not contagious.
- Cold sores (herpes simplex virus – HSV-1) appear outside the mouth, usually on the lips, and are highly contagious.
At Beyond Smiles, we know how frustrating and painful these sores can be. The good news? You can speed up healing, prevent outbreaks, and reduce discomfort with the right products and treatments.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between canker sores and cold sores, their causes, and the best dentist-approved products (available in our Amazon Storefront) to help you get relief fast.
What’s the Difference Between Canker Sores and Cold Sores?
| Feature | Canker Sores | Cold Sores |
| Location | Inside the mouth (tongue, cheeks, gums) | Outside the mouth (lips, corners of the mouth, nose) |
| Cause | Stress, injury, acidic foods, vitamin deficiencies | Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), triggered by stress, sun exposure, or illness |
| Contagious? | No | Yes |
| Pain Level | Moderate to severe, especially when eating or drinking | Tingling, burning, and then painful blisters |
| Healing Time | 7-14 days | 7-10 days |
| Treatment Focus | Reducing pain and irritation | Antiviral medication to shorten duration |
Best Treatments for Canker Sores
Use a Medicated Gel for Fast Relief
- Recommended Product: Best Canker Sore Gel – Provides pain relief and forms a protective barrier over the sore.
Rinse with a Healing Mouthwash
- Recommended Product: Canker Sore Healing Rinse – Contains aloe vera and hydrogen peroxide for gentle healing.
Take a Vitamin B12 Supplement
- Recommended Product: Vitamin B12 Supplement – Supports immune function and oral health.
Avoid Trigger Foods
- Avoid: Spicy foods, citrus fruits, coffee, chocolate, and acidic foods.
- Eat: Yogurt (probiotics help balance bacteria), leafy greens (rich in vitamins), and oatmeal (soothing to the mouth).
Use a Soft Toothbrush to Prevent Irritation
- Recommended Product: Gentle Soft-Bristled Toothbrush – Designed for sensitive mouths.
Best Treatments for Cold Sores
Apply an Antiviral Cream at the First Sign of a Cold Sore
Cold sores often start with a tingling or burning sensation before turning into painful blisters. Applying an antiviral cream early can shorten the outbreak.
- Recommended Product: Best Cold Sore Cream – Contains docosanol to speed up healing.
Take Lysine Supplements to Prevent Outbreaks
Lysine is an amino acid that helps prevent and reduce the severity of cold sores. Many people prone to cold sores take daily lysine supplements to prevent flare-ups.
- Recommended Product: Lysine Supplement for Cold Sores – Helps reduce frequency and severity of outbreaks.
Use a Cold Sore Patch for Faster Healing
Cold sore patches create a protective barrier, preventing the virus from spreading while allowing the sore to heal faster.
- Recommended Product: Cold Sore Patch – Discreet and medicated for quick healing.
Apply a Cooling Lip Balm with SPF
Sun exposure can trigger cold sores, so using a lip balm with SPF helps protect your lips.
- Recommended Product: Cold Sore Lip Balm with SPF – Hydrates and shields lips from UV exposure.
Keep Your Hands Off to Prevent Spreading
Cold sores spread easily, so avoid touching the sore and wash your hands frequently. Never share drinks, utensils, or lip products during an outbreak.
- Extra Tip: Replace your toothbrush after a cold sore outbreak to prevent reinfection.
