WHAT IS A COLD SORE?
A cold sore, also known as a fever blister or Recurrent Herpes Labialis, is caused by the reactivation of a virus called HSV-1. It is typically seen as a cluster of small blisters, which quickly rupture to form small ulcers. Over time, the ulcerations extend to the skin around the mouth and become covered with a crusting or scab.
Most patients experience a prodromal phase before the lesion breaks out. They feel an itching, burning or tingling sensation. The lesions are often painful and can come back on a regular basis.
The lesions begin quickly, and can be triggered by exposure to sunlight, local trauma, stress, or a decreased immune system. The blister and ulcer stages of the infection are contagious and usually heal within 7-10 days.
WHAT IS A CANKER SORE?
A canker sore, also known as an Aphthous Ulcer, is an autoimmune response, which damages the skin inside the mouth. The ulcer appears as a white or yellow center with a red border, and can be seen on the inside of the lips or cheeks, on or underneath the tongue, and on the back of the throat.
Canker sores can vary in size, from small (less than half of a centimeter) to large. They are usually associated with physical or emotional stress, become painful, and commonly come back in multiple areas.
HOW DOES LASER TREATMENT WORK?
No injection is necessary, the laser heats the lesion in order to kill the virus and stimulate your body’s healing potential. The laser does not touch the skin. Treatment lasts about 15 minutes, and most patients feel better immediately after treatment.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER TREATMENT?
Most patients feel immediate relief after laser treatment and do not require another treatment. The time that it takes for the ulcer to heal shortens when compared to no treatment.
Cold sores can come back, but laser treatment can lengthen the time in between flareups. Sores can be retreated, and over time, may not come back.
WHEN SHOULD I HAVE MY COLD OR CANKER SORE TREATED WITH A LASER?
As soon as you feel a burning, tingling, itchy sensation, you should seek treatment. The sooner the lesion is treated the faster it will heal.
LONG-TERM SUCCESS
Most patients find that after laser treatment, the sores do not re-occur in the treated areas, but if they do they are not as large or severe. If you have the Herpes Labialis Virus, you are prone to have these lesions recur.
WILL IT HURT?
Laser treatment is virtually painless. You will only feel a little heat.