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Can you go to the dentist with a cold sore?

If you’re scheduled to go to the dentist in Bournemouth – whether for a check-up, fillings, implants or even cosmetic treatments like Invisalign or whitening – and you’ve developed a cold sore or you’ve spotted the telltale signs that one is about to spring up, you might wonder if you can attend your appointment. 

women with cold sore touching her lip

The honest answer is that it depends. Cold sores are caused by a highly contagious virus and can be easily spread to other people, especially by some dental procedures and some dentists may prefer you to reschedule. The affected area may feel sore and could crack or bleed during treatment, making you feel uncomfortable sitting with your mouth open for a long time. 

It’s always a good idea to contact your dental clinic beforehand, giving them as much notice as possible to check on your dentist’s or hygienist’s policy.  They can advise you based on the treatment you’re having and their policies. 

What are cold sores?

Cold sores, or fever blisters as they are sometimes called, are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on the lips or around the mouth.

They start as tiny blisters that eventually break open, leaving shallow sores that form a scab as they heal. The skin surrounding the sore may become red, swollen, and tender. They generally go through five stages: tingling (prodrome), blister formation, open sores (ulceration), scabbing (crusting), and finally, healing.

What causes them?

They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) which is highly contagious and spreads easily between people, especially when the sores are visible.  Once a person is infected with the virus, it stays in the body permanently, remaining dormant in nerve cells and occasionally reactivating, leading to outbreaks.

Several factors can trigger the reactivation of the virus and cause the sores to appear, including:

  1. Stress
  2. Illness
  3. Sun exposure
  4. Hormonal changes
  5. Fatigue
  6. Injury or trauma
  7. Weakened immune system

When Are Cold Sores Most Contagious?

They are most contagious during the following times:

  1. When blisters are present: The fluid inside contains a high concentration of the virus.
  2. When sores are open and weeping: This is when they are most likely to spread through direct contact or shared objects like utensils, towels, or lip products.
  3. Even without visible sores: The virus can still spread even when cold sores aren’t present, known as asymptomatic viral shedding.

How can you tell you have one?

man with a cold sore on his bottom lip

Cold sores typically start with a tingling, itching, or burning sensation around the lips. You may then notice small, fluid-filled blisters that are painful, red, and swollen. As the blisters burst, they form open sores that scab over as they heal. Some people may get swollen lymph glands as well.

So, can you go to dentist with a cold sore?

As cold sores are contagious and it may be uncomfortable for you during treatment it may be a good idea to rearrange your appointment. However, it can depend on the stage of the cold sore, the procedure you’re having and the policies of your dental practice. If the sore is open or weeping, it’s generally advised to reschedule to prevent spreading the virus. 

If the sore is healing and not causing significant discomfort, your dentist may proceed with the appointment, possibly applying a protective layer of Vaseline to prevent cracking when you open your mouth wide. It’s best to inform your dentist as soon as possible, so they can guide you on the best course of action.

What if you need emergency dental treatment?

If you need emergency dental treatment for issues like severe pain, an abscess, or a knocked-out or cracked tooth, contact your dentist as soon as possible but let them know you have a cold sore and they will be able to advise you. 

How to treat and prevent cold sores

Cold sores typically go away on their own and generally heal within 7 to 10 days without medical treatment but you can speed up the healing process and reduce the severity of symptoms by using antivirals like Zovirax. Cold compresses and moisturising lip balms or Vaseline can help keep the sore hydrated as it heals and prevent painful cracking.

To help prevent cold sores, consider the following tips:

  • Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
  • Protect Your Lips: Use SPF lip balm to guard against sun exposure.
  • Boost Immunity: Maintain a healthy diet, exercise, and get enough sleep.
  • Avoid Triggers: Identify and steer clear of personal triggers like specific foods.
  • Practice Hygiene: Wash hands often and avoid sharing items like utensils or lip products.
  • Stay Healthy: Avoid illnesses that weaken the immune system.

Can you get a cold sore from the dentist?

While it is uncommon, it is possible to develop a cold sore after a dental visit. This can happen under specific circumstances:

  1. Irritation or Trauma: Dental procedures, especially those involving the lips or the area around the mouth, can sometimes irritate or traumatize the skin. This irritation can trigger the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) in individuals who carry it, leading to a cold sore outbreak.
  2. Stress: Dental visits can sometimes be stressful, and stress is a known trigger for cold sore outbreaks.
  3. Contamination Risks: Modern dental practices follow strict sterilization and hygiene protocols, so the risk of contracting HSV-1 from dental tools or surfaces is extremely low. However, in rare cases of poor hygiene practices, there could be a risk of viral transmission.

Conclusion

Cold sores are highly contagious, you may find dental treatment uncomfortable, and some dentists may prefer not to treat you. But it can also depend on the stage of your cold sore and the treatment you are having. The best way to find out what to do is to give them a ring, explain the situation and see if they would like you to rearrange. 

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