If you have had a cold sore for less than two weeks, please call us to reschedule your appointment. As part of our Infection Prevention and Control measures, our dentists and dental hygiene therapists avoid treating patients with an active cold sore as your lips may be painful and could crack or bleed during treatment. It’s usually better to reschedule your appointment until after this contagious period has passed, to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. A cold sore is most contagious right before the blister forms and while the blister or any scabbing is present, generally around 15 days.
If urgent or emergency dental treatment is required, our dentists will request that your cold sore is fully covered with a cold sore plaster to minimise the risk of cross-infection during your treatment.
After your cold sore goes away, it’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush.