At Dental West NYC, our dental team takes a holistic approach to oral wellness, caring for the health of our patients’ entire mouths and surrounding anatomy. That’s why we carefully examine your jaw, head, and neck during your exams. It’s why we treat TMJ and migraines. And, that’s why we want you to think of us when you get a canker or cold sore too. Many sufferers of mouth sores are under the impression that there’s no treatment once an outbreak begins, that they just have to wait it out. But Dental West offers effective cold sore and canker sore treatment in NYC.
How We Get Rid of Cold Sores and Canker Sores in Upper West Side NYC Fast
Our PerioLase laser dentistry device features a photobiomodulation (PBM) setting designed to target ulcers like canker and cold sores specifically. Briefly, PBM is a type of laser light therapy that disrupts the oxidative stress process and restores a healthy cellular process, which promotes rapid healing. This light-based treatment for cold sores and canker sores has been shown in clinical research studies to accelerate healing of the current outbreak and reduce the duration of recurrences.
Make an Appointment Now
If you have a mouth sore or ulcer, give us a call today. Our Team can quickly work you in for a laser treatment at our Upper West Side office. Don’t wait it out and suffer; we can help you get rid of your canker sore or cold sore fast!
FAQ About Canker and Cold Sores
What is the difference between canker sores and cold sores?
Canker sores appear inside the mouth on soft tissue and aren’t contagious. They’re typically caused by stress, minor injuries, or certain foods. Cold sores appear on or around the lips, are caused by the herpes simplex virus, and are highly contagious. Cold sores often begin with tingling before forming fluid-filled blisters, while canker sores start as painful red spots that develop into white or yellow ulcers.
How do you treat canker sores?
Canker sores typically heal on their own within 1-2 weeks. Treatment focuses on pain relief and faster healing through topical medications, prescription gels, antimicrobial mouthrinses, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods. For persistent or severe canker sores, your dentist may recommend silver nitrate cauterization, steroid medications, or nutritional supplements if deficiencies are identified.
What is laser treatment for cold sores?
Laser treatment for cold sores uses focused light energy to reduce pain, promote faster healing, and potentially decrease outbreak frequency. The laser treatment works best when applied at the first sign of tingling before the blister form. Most patients experience immediate pain relief and healing within 2-4 days rather than the typical 7-10 days without treatment.
How can I prevent cold sores?
Preventing cold sores involves identifying and avoiding triggers like stress, sun exposure, illness, or fatigue. Use lip balm with SPF, manage stress through healthy habits, maintain a strong immune system, avoid sharing utensils or personal items, and consider antiviral medications if you have frequent outbreaks. While you can’t eliminate the virus, you can reduce outbreak frequency and severity.
When should I see a dentist for mouth sores?
See a dentist if sores last longer than two weeks, are unusually large or painful, keep returning frequently, make eating or drinking difficult, or are accompanied by fever or other symptoms. Your dentist can determine whether you have canker sores, cold sores, or another condition requiring different treatment. Early professional evaluation can provide relief and prevent complications.
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