Cold sores are annoying and painful. But do they indicate a health problem? While it’s perfectly normal to these mouth sores every so often, some people get them frequently. Below, we will give you the facts about these little bumps. We’ll also tell you when it’s time to get professional help.
What are These Sores Anyway?
Cold sores are also known as fever blisters. These are small red bumps that appear along the lips or in the corner of the mouth. Unless these blisters are extremely painful, you shouldn’t worry too much about them as they are quite common. They are also different from canker sores, which appear inside the mouth. They are also different from pimples. Cold sores are usually caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1.
Don’t let the name herpes scare you though. There are many different strains of the herpes virus. Cold sores do not automatically mean you have an STD.
Should I Visit My Dentist?
If you have a cold sore on the day of your dentist appointment, you might want to reschedule. Sometimes, these sores can make it difficult to open your mouth fully. This can make your dentist visit a little uncomfortable.
If you get frequent cold sores, a dentist can sometimes prescribe medications to help. This medicine will have antiviral properties. In general, cold sores are not a dental problem though. However, sores or ulcers on the inside of the mouth might be cause for concern. If you have these, then call your dentist for advice.
Make a Dental Appointment Today
Visiting the dentist every six months is the best way to keep your mouth clean and healthy. At Pearl Modern Dentistry, we make it easy to get quality care. We have appointments six days per week at our convenient office. You can schedule an appointment by clicking the link at the top of the page. You can also call us at 713-766-4389.
