Canker sores and cold sores are two common types of mouth sores. Canker sores appear as small ulcers inside the mouth, on areas like the tongue or inner cheeks, while cold sores appear as blisters outside the mouth, usually on or around the lips. Both can cause pain when eating or talking. Canker sores are not infectious, but cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus, can be spread from person to person. While there is no cure, home remedies can help speed healing for both types of sores.