Cold sores are a common condition. While most can heal on their own, certain cases are best suited to cold sore treatment from a general dentist. These dental providers have a range of effective, targeted treatment options for cold sores, helping to relieve symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters symptomatic of the herpes simplex virus (either type 1 or type 2). These viruses can lie dormant in the body until triggered by factors such as stress, fatigue, hormonal changes, secondary infections, and sun or wind exposure. Once triggered, cold sores will appear around the mouth or lips, where they blister, break, and scab over. Typically, cold sores heal on their own within a few weeks. Pain, itching, and discomfort are common at each stage of the outbreak.
A general dentist can play a key role in treating and accommodating cold sores. During a dental checkup and cleaning, they can work around and assess cold sores for signs of complications, such as secondary infections or sores that are spreading to other areas of the mouth.
The dentist will also discuss how to maintain good oral hygiene during outbreaks without further aggravating cold sores. Poor oral hygiene during a cold sore outbreak can lead to additional infections or prolong healing time, so it is important to keep the mouth clean and free of bacteria. This includes replacing the toothbrush and using antiseptic mouthwash.
Dentists offer a variety of cold sore treatments to manage symptoms and promote healing. These treatments can also help outbreaks become less frequent. Examples include:
A dentist can prescribe antiviral medications to soothe a cold sore outbreak. Common examples include acyclovir or penciclovir creams, which are gently applied on top of the cold sore. These medications are most effective when used early, as they are made to target the virus at the surface level, shortening healing time and minimizing pain and discomfort.
Patients who experience frequent or severe cold sore outbreaks but do not respond well to topical medications may benefit from prescription-strength oral antiviral medications, such as valacyclovir. Like topical medications, oral medications are best taken at the first sign of a cold sore outbreak because they stop the virus from replicating. This can help shorten the duration and severity of the outbreak.
Dental laser therapy is an innovative cold sore treatment that dentists employ to reduce pain, promote healing, and reduce outbreak frequency. With this approach, the dentist targets active cold sores with a soft-tissue dental laser, deactivating the virus at the infection site. The laser is non-invasive and mostly painless, so there is no need for anesthesia. At most, patients will feel slight tingling, pressure, or warmth during this therapy.
Cold sore treatment from a dentist can help relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of persistent outbreaks. If you have been dealing with frequent or severe cold sores, consult a dentist at Oakland Dental Implant Center. Our team can discuss your options and answer any questions in an appointment that fits your schedule.
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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