Pictures of Canker Sores and Pictures of Cold Sores

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, generally occur inside the mouth, on the gums or inside of the cheeks. They are bacterial infections, but are not contagious. Stress, genetics, trauma, medications, hormones, food allergies or other medical problems can trigger canker sores. Untreated, canker sores last 10 - 14 days.

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are rarely found in the mouth and usually develop on and around the lips, and sometimes on the nose or near the eyes. Cold sores are highly contagious and can be passed along through kissing or sharing eating utensils. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Untreated, cold sores may last an average of 11.5 days. (McCarthy JP, Browning WD, Teerlink C, Veit G. Treatment of herpes labialis: comparison of two OTC drugs and untreated controls. J Esthet Restor Dent. 2012 Apr;24(2):103-9.)

Picture of Canker Sore

Picture of Cold Sore on Mouth

Picture of Cold Sore on Nose

Picture of Cold Sore above Lip

Picture of Cold Sore on Lower Lip

Picture of Cold Sore on Side of Mouth