Visiting The Dentist
Visiting The Dentist

Can you go to the dentist with a cold sore?


Life goes on when you’ve got a cold sore, but what do you do if you’ve got a dental appointment scheduled? Not to worry, here are a few tips on how to get your dentist onside when you’ve got a cold sore.

If you suffer from cold sores, you know how stressful and frustrating they can be. Some people find visiting a dentist to be stressful, which could serve as a trigger for a cold sore. On the other hand, going to the dentist with a cold sore may be a worry. In either case, make your dentist an ally and join forces to minimise the chances of an outbreak or of spreading the virus.

Talk to your dentist. Explain your worries to your dentist. Dental instruments can irritate the cold sore, so be sure your dentist knows that you have a cold sore. They can then take the proper precautions.

Call ahead. If you already have a cold sore, call your dentist in advance. Some dentists prefer not to treat patients with an active cold sore as it can be painful and cause bleeding and irritation. It’s usually better to reschedule your appointment until the cold sore heals and is no longer infectious.

Apply a cool compress. If you decide to go to the dentist during an outbreak or your cold sore gets painful, apply a cool compress to ease the irritability and redness.