Cold Sore Treatment

Cold sores can clear up on their own in about two to three weeks, but cold sore treatment in Cary, NC, can speed up the process.

Jeffrey S. Kearney, DDS, uses a diode laser to reduce pain, shorten the healing process, and potentially stop the recurrence of the condition.

Understanding Cold Sores

Cold sores are a viral disease caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) strain. These fluid-filled blisters can cause discomfort and feelings of embarrassment. Many people are exposed to the HSV-1 virus in childhood, and many teens and adults develop recurrent herpes.

When left to heal on their own, cold sores can take two to three weeks. The outbreak begins with the stinging or tingling of the area. The area then swells and blister-like sores filled with fluid develop. The sores then scab over. Herpetic ulcers are contagious and have historically been difficult to treat.

While there is no cure for the herpes simplex virus, it is commonly managed with over-the-counter antiviral medication. However, our Cary dental office uses a more advanced treatment: the diode laser.

Dr. Kearney's Approach to Treating Cold Sores and Herpetic Ulcers of the Mouth

The diode laser has long been used in the field of dentistry to perform treatments like periodontal disease management and minimally invasive oral surgery. Advancements in the field have determined that this diode laser can also treat herpes outbreaks of the mouth.

Our diode laser uses light energy to kill the virus, alleviate uncomfortable symptoms, and stimulate the healing process, all in 20 minutes.

a diode laser

Patients Rave About This Treatment

“I’ve suffered with Herpetic ulcers on my lower lip since I was a teenager. I’ve tried creams and expensive prescription medication with no improvement. I was skeptical of the possible results of the laser. I had three treatments between 2022 and 2023 during three different outbreaks. Treatments were quick and painless. I can now happily say I’ve been almost a full year without a single outbreak and my sores are so much smaller now that they are barely noticeable. I’m so happy with my results.”

Nicole

Cary Trusts Jeffrey S. Kearney, DDS

Accredited Dentist

Dr. Kearney is a fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology, and an alumnus of the LVI Advanced Dental Studies. These affiliations demonstrate his dedication to providing patients with quality and informed care.

Judgment-Free Care

We know that visible outbreaks of the herpes simplex virus can make patients feel self-conscious, but you're not alone. The World Health Organization reports that an estimated 3.7 billion people under the age of 50 have HSV-1. Our Cary, NC, team will administer judgment-free care that puts your comfort at the center. Our only goal is to alleviate your infection as quickly as possible.

A Range of Treatments

Whether you need to treat a cold sore quickly, receive a routine dental checkup, or improve the health or beauty of your smile, our Cary office is a one-stop shop for dental care. We're proud to offer a range of services so everything you'll ever need is in one place.

A Trusted Reputation

Dr. Kearney has been serving his community since 1992, earning him the trust of many Cary residents. When people choose him for their care, they know they're choosing a dentist who offers honest recommendations and thorough treatment options and will never try to upsell them on treatment they don't need.

Comfortable Experiences

We know that many patients put off the care they need due to poor past experiences in the dental chair. We aim to offer a relaxing and supportive environment so you can undergo the treatment you need comfortably. With a TV in every exam room and an approachable team, your treatment can be a breeze.

Paying for
Your Cold Sore Treatment

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Each laser treatment for cold sores costs $8. This treatment is eligible for dental insurance coverage, and most patients receive it. Our Cary, NC, office accepts most insurance plans so you can apply your benefits to your treatment.

Diode Laser Treatment for Cold Sores A Look at the Process

If you want to treat your cold sore with a diode laser, contact our Cary dental office during the initial appearance of the fever blister. This is often within two days of the onset, when the blister is starting to tingle or sting. Once the cold sore reaches the crusted or scabbed stage, it's too late to treat.

To treat your cold sores in Cary, NC, you can expect these steps:

Treatment with a diode laser takes about 20 minutes.
Treatment with a diode laser takes about 20 minutes.

Relax

Dr. Kearney will encourage you to sit back and relax in the dental chair. Treatment with our diode laser is pain-free and requires no anesthesia. In fact, patients often report feeling only a warm sensation during treatment and experiencing less pain in the lesion after treatment.

Laser

Dr. Kearney will use the diode laser to target the fever blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus. He will administer the laser in a back-and-forth or circular motion around the lesion, starting along the outside and working his way toward the center. You can then return to your day.

Repeat

If you treat each herpes simplex outbreak with a diode laser, you can continue to reduce the size and duration of your outbreaks.

“In complete awe of their unparalleled service.” 5-Star Reviews of Our Practice

1

Raghav Pavaman

Cary, NC

2024

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Both my daughter and I are in complete awe of their unparalleled service, meticulous follow-ups, and the genuine care they show by taking the time to listen and address all our concerns. Their dedication to making us feel comfortable and valued is truly unmatched. I would wholeheartedly recommend this outstanding place to everyone around the globe!

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1

Edwin Caban

Cary, NC

2024

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The office was inviting and the staff made me feel comfortable. The Doctor thoroughly explained the procedure and answered all my questions. What more can I ask from them.

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Dr. Jeffrey Kearney

Jeffrey S. Kearney, DDS

Dr. Kearney specializes in comfortable, comprehensive dental services at his modern and inviting family practice in Cary, NC. He is trained to surgically place and restore dental implants and also offers the latest treatments to treat TMJ issues, sleep apnea, and orthodontic problems. Prestigious affiliations include:

  • American Academy of Craniofacial Pain
  • International Congress of Oral Implantologists
  • Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies
  • Academy of General Dentistry

Whether you are new to the Cary, NC, area or are a lifelong resident looking for a caring, highly trained dental professional, our team would love to meet you. Contact us online or call (919) 859-4778 to request an appointment.

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