Have you ever felt that itch or some sort of burning sensation around your lips or the corners of your mouth? That uncomfortable sensation you’re feeling is caused by what we call a cold sore. It usually takes at least 10 days – roughly around 2 weeks – for it to completely go away, and while it could be a real bummer, there are actually ways on how to get rid of it in a fast, efficient way. But first, let’s try to understand what cold sores are, their triggers and their suggested preventive and treatment options.
What is a Cold Sore Exactly?
A cold sore is a condition that forms liquid-filled blisters surrounding your oral area, it may be on the side of your lips or your entire mouth. It spells discomfort which can give you the urge to scratch (though that is highly discouraged!) it. The good thing about it is that it’s not really a serious medical condition, but one that must be tended to immediately to prevent any further infection and spread. Apart from it being a nuisance to your physical appearance, it has the possibility of infecting other people close to you if left untreated. Another good thing that’s worth noting about cold sores is that it’s only temporary and curable, though patience is required when dealing with it. We know how tempting it is to scratch or prick it because who wants blisters and scabs visibly lingering on your skin, right? There’s just the waiting game to deal with, but more often than not, cold sores heal themselves without leaving any traces of scars. Speaking of games, if you’re looking for a way to pass the time while your cold sore heals, you can try your luck at the
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Triggering the Cold Sore
So you must be wondering: how do cold sores even come to be? A virus called herpes simplex virus, or HSV-1, is what makes cold sores as they are. It may be obtained through physical, intimate contact such as by kissing, sharing of personal belongings (e.g. towels, utensils), and even some external factors like cold weather or when a person is undergoing extremely stressful situations. Both adults and children alike are prone to getting cold sores.
How to Prevent Cold Sores
We know how irritating these blisters can be and in order to prevent it from spreading, here are some helpful tips to remember:
Maintain clean personal hygiene. We think that this is the root of it all; viruses like to thrive on dirt which may eventually lead to infection. Brush your teeth regularly, and maintain physical neatness.
Avoid sharing personal belongings. Especially those that you use for your face and mouth, such as towels and utensils. Sure, we all know Barney once sang to us that “sharing is caring”, but the truth is, there are certain things that we can’t share all the time, and it’s not because that we don’t care; it’s more of self-preservation and caring for one’s health and well-being.
Avoid physical contact with an infected person. Cold sores are contagious and in order to prevent them from spreading even more, if you know someone who’s infected, give them some space for recovery first. To name a few, this entails no kissing, hugging, touching, or drinking from the same cup, at least until the lesions are completely healed. Take note that cold sores can spread on the other parts of the body too if it’s been exposed to the infection.
Wear sunscreen and lip balm. Keep your lips and skin moist especially if the cold weather is harsh and windy. The moist will keep your lips and skin from dehydration and cracking.
Get enough rest. Fatigue and exhaustion can trigger cold sores, which is why it’s important to get rest when you need it the most.
Cold Sore Treatment
One more thing to worry less about cold sore is the availability of treatments almost everywhere. You can opt for home remedy treatments such as applying ice over the infected area or using aloe vera gel to soothe the blisters. Moreover, you can also choose to buy prescribed antibacterial medications in drug stores upon your doctor’s advice. With these conventional options, it will usually take you about 2-3 weeks for the sore to clear up, provided that it’s not further irritated or inflamed by touching or pricking. But as we live in a digital age where everything is designed to be more convenient and more efficient, there is already a faster way of getting rid of cold sores; thanks to technology, and we already have the likes of Laser Cold Sore Treatment to make that happen!
Infinite Dental Wellness’ Laser Cold Sore Treatment in Glendale, CA
Situated in the area of Glendale, CA, Infinite Dental Wellness is proud to offer cutting-edge technology that can quicken the pacing of cold sores. Our dental center is equipped with the likes of Infinite Dental Wellness’ Epic™ Diode Laser that has the capability of relieving pain and pressure from your inflamed blisters. Moreover, it can disinfect any surrounding lesions and inflammations. The best part is that it’s painless and effective in a matter of minutes! For any inquiries and consultations, you may drop us a call, visit, or email, and we’d be happy to assist you in any way we can!