Though often confused with cold sores or fever blisters that are contagious, canker sores are not and are a problem that nearly everyone will deal with at some point in life. Here's the difference between these medical conditions. Cold sores and fever blisters are caused by the herpes virus (HSV1) and usually occur on or around the lips, but can also occur inside the mouth on the gums, tongue, and palate especially in acute cases. On the other hand, canker sores are small painful red-bordered ulcers with a white or yellowish base. They generally occur inside the mouth on more moveable tissue (under the tongue, cheeks, and inside the lips).
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