When To Visit a Dentist for Cold Sore Treatment

Cold sore treatment from a general dentist can provide fast, effective, and long-lasting relief, especially for recurrent or severe sores. However, it can be hard to tell when to upgrade from over-the-counter treatments. Reading up on the signs that indicate the need for professional cold sore treatment can help you get the care you need as soon as possible.

Cold sores: What you need to know

Cold sores are small, painful blisters that form on or around the lips. Also known as fever blisters, they are typically caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which lies dormant in the body until it is activated and reactivated by triggers. Common triggers include:

• Fatigue and stress
• Exposure to strong sunlight
• Cold, windy, or other extreme weather conditions
• Certain foods (typically meats, beans, and dairy)
• The common cold and similar illnesses

Once HSV-1 is activated, cold sores will appear. Patients often experience tingling, itching, or burning sensations around the sore. These symptoms should subside as the cold sore heals on its own — within about one to two weeks on average.

When to see a dentist about cold sores

Although cold sores go away on their own, it is recommended to consult a general dentist if they are severe and recur frequently. A dentist can identify secondary infections or underlying health issues, if any, and provide targeted treatments to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Here are common signs that indicate the need for professional cold sore treatment:

• Cold sores that do not heal within 10 to 14 days
• Frequent outbreaks, such as multiple times a year
• Severe pain that makes it hard to eat or speak
• Inflammation in the lips or gums
• Spreading cold sores that extend to other areas of the mouth, gums, or face

Another common sign is when over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, such as creams and patches, do not provide sufficient relief from symptoms. These products are designed to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, so see a dentist if the cold sore does not improve after several days of use. 

Cold sore treatment options from a dentist

When OTC treatments are not enough, general dentists can provide more advanced cold sore treatments. For example, they can prescribe strong antiviral medications and topical pain relief to help reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks. A more advanced option is low-level laser therapy (LLLT), a noninvasive cold sore treatment that speeds up healing and reduces the frequency of future outbreaks.

A general dentist can also offer guidance on managing cold sore triggers to reduce outbreak frequency. This often includes lifestyle changes to manage stress, avoid triggering foods, and protect oneself from sun exposure.

Get relief from cold sores

Frequent or severe cold sores can be a bother. However, our team at Oakland Dental Implant Center provides cold sore treatments in Oakland to help patients maintain better oral health and overall well-being. Contact us today to learn more in an appointment.

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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