Cold sores are a common but frustrating issue for many students. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can keep your dental appointment due to a cold sore, we’re here to help.
What is a cold sore?
A cold sore is a recurrent viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It’s highly contagious, especially during the first few days.
Cold sores can spread through sharing items like vapes and utensils or direct contact like kissing. They often appear on or around the lips but can sometimes occur inside the mouth.
Cold sores can be triggered by factors like stress, illness, sunburn, or trauma. Symptoms may include fever, discomfort, and multiple sores inside the mouth.
How is a cold sore different from a canker sore?
It’s easy to confuse cold sores with canker sores, but they’re not the same:
- Canker sores: Non-contagious, typically found inside the mouth.
- Cold sores: Contagious, usually found on the lips or around the mouth.
Why should I reschedule my dental appointment?
It’s best to avoid dental visits when you have a cold sore. Dentists can’t perform treatments like cleanings or procedures on active cold sores because the aerosol equipment can cause the virus to spread to other areas, like your eyes, potentially causing a different type of infection.
Your dentist may still evaluate your sore but will likely recommend rescheduling any non-urgent care.
When should I ask my dentist about a mouth lesion?
Not all mouth lesions are cold sores. Contact your dentist if you have a sore that:
- Has been present for more than two weeks.
- Is painful or not healing.
- Shows unusual color changes (e.g., red lesions may indicate trauma, while white may signify healing).
Take action
The University Health Center’s dental clinic is here to support you with expert advice and care. If you’re unsure about a mouth sore or need to reschedule due to a cold sore, don’t hesitate to reach out.
