As we welcome November, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude to our wonderful patients. Your trust in us for your dental care means the world, and we are here to keep you informed about your oral health.
Spotlight on Oral Health: Understanding Cold Sores (Oral Herpes)
This month, we would like to discuss a common condition that affects many: oral herpes, often caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Oral herpes usually presents as cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, even when sores are not visible.
Symptoms to Watch For:
| Tingling, burning, or itching around the lips | Tiny fluid filled blisters |
| Blisters that may break open and crust open | Painful sores that can last 1-2 weeks |
Managing Oral Herpes:
While there is no cure for oral herpes, you can manage outbreaks effectively:
- Avoid Triggers: Stress, illness, and sun exposure can trigger outbreaks. Practicing stress-reducing techniques and using lip balm with SPF can help.
- Medications: Over-the-counter creams that contain antiviral medication (such as acyclovir 5% w/w) can reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks. There is also pharmacist dispensed tablets as a once off antiviral dose to treat cold sores.
- Laser Treatment: At our sister practice, Adelaide City Dental Care, we offer laser treatment for oral herpes. Laser therapy can help reduce pain, speed up healing, and minimize the duration of outbreaks when treated early. This painless and simple procedure targets the affected area and promotes faster recovery. Treatment is best done as soon as the first signs start or within 48 hours.
When to See Us:
If you experience frequent outbreaks or have concerns about sores that are not healing, please reach out. Our team is here to provide guidance and treatment options to help manage your symptoms effectively.
Upcoming Festivities:
As we head into the festive season, remember that holiday treats can impact your oral health. Enjoy sweets in moderation, and maintain your oral hygiene routine—brushing and flossing daily are key to preventing cavities and gum disease. Come in to see us to make the best use of your dental benefits for this calendar year. December can be our busiest period, so book now if you have outstanding treatment or want to get your teeth cleaned before Christmas!
Welcome to Soheila, our new hygienist, who is joining our team on. Soheila is lovely and very experienced.
See you in the clinic! The Victoria Park Dental Care team.
PS: check out our socials (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram) for top tips for teeth, mouth and gums and dental family snaps! Maybe even the latest video on YouTube.