Ouch! Are you dealing with a cold sore? People often ask, “Does Toothpaste get rid of cold sores?” We understand that these mouth ulcers are never fun. If you have a cold sore, then you are probably looking to get rid of it as soon as possible. A quick Google search will tell you that toothpaste is an easy home remedy for a cold sore. But is this treatment safe- and does it even work? Let’s learn the facts in the article below.
What Causes Cold Sores?
Cold sores are caused by a virus called Herpes Simplex Virus 1, also known as HSV-1. This is just one of the many forms of the herpes virus. It is a very common virus that is spread through saliva. While cold sores aren’t dangerous, they can be painful, annoying, and embarrassing.
The Theory on Toothpaste
Some people believe that the germ-fighting ingredients in toothpaste can also fight off the herpes virus. Lots of people will put a dab of toothpaste on a cold sore in an attempt to dry out the blister. But does toothpaste actually get rid of cold sores? Probably not. All of the evidence is anecdotal. Plus, toothpaste might irritate the skin if left in place for too long.
Home remedies for cold sores
Cold sores typically go away on their own, probably in a few weeks. However, you can ease discomfort and promote the healing process by following the home remedies given below.
- Over-the-counter cold sore ointment, such as Abreva (docosanol)
- Cold compress around the area
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, like creams with lidocaine or benzocaine
- Lip balm with UV (sunlight) protection.
Other Ways to Find Relief
Unfortunately, once you have HSV-1, there is no way to treat cold sores. However, they can be triggered by different things like stress or fatigue. Try to limit your triggers as a way to limit your cold sores. Also, ask your doctor or dentist about an OTC pain reliever.
Cold sore Prevention
Though you cannot treat cold sores, you can still try to prevent them to a good extent. Studies show that cold sores can be triggered by sunlight. So covering your skin around the lips with sunscreen can reduce the risk of getting the virus. As mentioned earlier, stress, fatigue, or even an upset stomach may trigger a cold sore. Unfortunately, no natural remedy is proven to be 100% effective in treating or preventing cold sores. However, you can help stay one step ahead by taking care of yourself and paying attention to its triggers.
Talk to Your Dentist
If you get frequent mouth ulcers, then it’s time to talk to a professional. You may be having a reaction to a product you use. There is also a chance that these aren’t cold sores at all, but something else. Ask your Cypress dentist to evaluate your mouth to check for any issues. Please feel free to contact The Smile Artisans. We are more than happy to answer your questions about cold sore problems and more.