Herpes labialis
Oral, or labial, herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. We know it more as “cold sores” or “cold sores”. This condition is manifested by the appearance of blisters on or around the lips. A burning and tingling sensation at the site of the lesion are warning signs of herpes.
In case you feel a push
- Avoid touching the lesion and wash your hands in case of contact,
- Do not share your utensils, food, your glass or oral hygiene tool,
- Avoid contact with children
- Make sure to keep lips well hydrated and
- Apply ice as needed
Consequences
The majority of people infected with this virus have no symptoms. However, in some cases, it is important to consult:
- When the lesion does not heal,
- When there is frequent recurrence,
- If there is pain or fever,
- If the eyes become sensitive to light, which is a sign that the infection has reached them or
- If the nose becomes numb, following a push on the upper lip.
Even if no medicine eliminates the herpes virus, the dentist can still prescribe antiviral ointments or tablets to relieve symptoms and reduce the duration and frequency of recurrences.
If you had an appointment with your dentist, and you were thinking of canceling it because of the eruption of blisters, keep it, we can help you.
Laser treatment
It is also possible that the dental hygienist will treat your “cold sore” with a Diode laser, in order to stop the process of infection development and/or initiate healing, depending on the stage at which the virus has reached.
If you experience tingling and a burning sensation, the laser treatment will prevent the ‘cold sore’ from coming out, it will form a smaller scab without going through the blister stage and thereby heal faster. In addition, even if the laser treatment is during the last phase of herpes, the laser treatment will help speed healing and the immediate disappearance of symptoms. The more often the laser is used to stop the virus, the fewer recurrences there will be.
In children?
There is a type of herpes that is found in children under the age of 6, primary herpetic gingivostomatitis. This common pediatric infection is caused in 90% of cases by herpes simplex virus type 1. Although most children are asymptomatic, diagnosis in this population is made based on the clinical presentation of erythematous gums , mucosal hemorrhages and clusters of eruptive blisters in the mouth with intense pain.
Treatments
Symptoms are very often related to the pain caused by the lesions and fever, so an analgesic such as Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for children can be administered during the time of illness. Also, children often tend to decrease their fluid intake, so it is important to keep them well hydrated until the lesions disappear. On the other hand, in rarer cases, the herpes infection can cause encephalitis which can be fatal. So do not hesitate to consult your doctor if the symptoms worsen.
Is it contagious?
Herpetic gingivostomatitis is very contagious. It is therefore strongly advised that those around you protect themselves with a mask and wash their hands carefully before and after each treatment provided to the child. It is important that pregnant women do not come into contact with a child showing symptoms of herpetic gingivostomatitis. Fortunately, this disease only lasts a few days, but contagion lasts 2 to 3 days following the disappearance of the blisters.
