They are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are highly contagious.

Cold sores usually heal on their own within a few weeks but can be uncomfortable and may recur periodically.

If you feel a cold sore coming on call the office to ask about our cold sore laser treatment.

**If treatment is done early enough it can stop the cold sore from fully developing.

**If further along it can shorten the duration

Aside from laser treatment or emergencies, routine dental treatment should be postponed until in the healing stage. This is both for your comfort and due to the highly contagious nature of cold sores