Can someone tell me if mouth sores are considered herpes or canker sores?

Herpetic lesions: Most often mouth sores are herpetic in origin, meaning they are full of viruses. If you have these, consult your dds if they do not disappear within 4-7 days. Sometimes these sores can migrate around your mouth or tongue, and become very uncomfortable. Avoid acidic foods. Ask your dds for a prescription rinse that might make them less painful.

Canker vs cold sores: They can be either. At the end of this answer is a link to a great resource discussing the differences between the two. Most intraoral (inside the mouth) sores are canker sores (aphthous ulcers) while the blister type sores on the lips are herpetic cold sores. See:http://www.Uhs.Umich.Edu/coldcankersores.

Canker & cold sores: Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are painful sores inside the mouth. No one knows what causes canker sores. Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) typically causes cold sores. Cold sore blisters can occur in many different parts of the body but are most common on or around the lips and cheeks. See your dentist if concerned.