Finding out you need cold sore treatment may elicit a mixture of emotions. While this is understandable, working with a general dentist can help you manage symptoms and outbreaks. In an effort to ease some of the negative feelings that result from uncertainty regarding cold sore treatment, we will answer five of the most commonly asked questions.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, cold sores result from the herpes simplex virus. They manifest as small blisters around the mouth, also called fever blisters. While there are multiple strains of the virus, herpes simplex virus 1 is the one that most commonly results in cold sores. The typical cycle of an outbreak is 14 days.
Cold sores are contagious. However, they are only contagious at the beginning of an outbreak until they fully heal, meaning there is no longer a sign of their existence. Signs of an outbreak include tingling around the lips, fever, and a sore or inflamed throat. Note that all these signs can occur before seeing a sore around or in the mouth. Nevertheless, transmission is still possible. During this time, it is important to avoid skin-to-skin contact with any other person, including sexual activity and kissing.
It is important to note that there is no cure for cold sores at this time. However, the virus can remain dormant or inactive for long periods, from months to years. Nevertheless, a general dentist can recommend multiple cold sore treatments.
Antiviral medications are the most effective cold sore treatments. If applied early, topical creams containing acyclovir or penciclovir can reduce healing time. Oral antiviral drugs like valacyclovir or famciclovir may be prescribed for severe cases, lessening symptoms and shortening outbreaks. If these treatments prove ineffective, the dentist may consider laser dentistry to eliminate the virus causing the blister or lesion.
Avoiding triggers can minimize outbreaks. Everyone can have different triggers for this virus. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, exposure to the sun, cold, wind, weak immune systems, and stress are the most common.
Using a lip balm with sunscreen helps prevent sun-induced outbreaks. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress support the immune system. For frequent outbreaks, a general dentist may recommend dental laser therapy.
Yes, dental laser therapy. Applying laser, or light, energy to the soft tissue reduces viral activity and promotes faster healing. Dentists can use laser technology to target the tissues outside and inside the mouth, making it easy to access the cold sores. The laser treatment can alleviate pain and decrease the duration of the outbreak.
In a 2022 study published by the scientific journal Cureus in the National Library of Medicine, laser therapy expedited healing time and reduced blister size compared to traditional methods. The study also reported that relapse rates within the following months of the procedure were significantly decreased compared to traditional cold sore treatments. Additionally, patients often experience immediate relief from discomfort after the procedure. Note that while some patients may benefit from one appointment, most patients require two or three to break the cycle of an outbreak.
Cold sore treatment can look different for everyone. However, being well-informed and having access to a professional who can help manage the condition is an effective way to keep it under control. If you have additional questions on the disease or treatment options, do not hesitate to call our office for more information.
Request an appointment here: https://dentalimplantsoakland.com or call Oakland Dental Implant Center at (510) 257-2284 for an appointment in our Oakland office.
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