Taylor Dental Care helps with Cold Sore treatment and prevention
Cold Sore treatments at the dentist in Sandy, Utah
Cold sores are a common nuisance that can appear around the mouth, but your dentist can help. Drs. Michelle and Glenn Taylor at Taylor Dental Care in Sandy, Utah can offer treatments for cold sores to help clear outbreaks and prevent them from recurring.
The cause of cold sores
Most cold sores are caused by the type 1 herpes simplex virus, or HSV-1, which is a common virus that affects nearly half the population. Most people contract HSV-1 as young children and deal with cold sores throughout their life. However, several other kinds of herpes simplex viruses can cause cold sores, though they are less common. Cold sores typically appear near the outside of your mouth, and outbreaks can be triggered by stress, illness, sun exposure, or cold wind. They can also be triggered by fluctuating hormones. Cold sores can cause burning, itching, and sensitivity around the sore, but treatment can reduce the symptoms.
The HSV-1 virus is extremely contagious and can spread very easily through contact with a cold sore. You should be careful to wash your hands after touching your face to prevent the spread, and you should always call the dentist’s office if a cold sore appears around the time you have a scheduled appointment and talk to them about how to proceed.
Treating cold sores
Once you have been exposed to HSV-1, the virus will remain active in your body despite any treatment you receive. Cold sores will usually go away on their own within 2-4 weeks. However, over the counter medications and prescription ointments can help clear them up faster, as well as laser therapy. Your dentist can also prescribe an antiviral medication to prevent outbreaks and reduce your risk of spreading the virus.While cold sores may be embarrassing, complications from them are rare. However, HSV-8 is a less common type of virus that is linked to oral cancer. However, your dentist will provide screening for oral cancer during your routine checkups and refer you to a specialist if they find signs of cancer. To learn more about how we can help, contact the dental team at Taylor Dental Care in Sandy, UT. Call (801) 285-6607 to request a consultation visit with Drs. Michelle and Glenn Taylor today.