Did You Know?-Cold Sores

Cold sores are blisters on the lips and are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) type 1. Did you know that 90% of all people get a cold sore once in their life? Following the initial blister, your body may develop antibodies, after that 40% of the population are likely to have recurring blisters. The blisters are generally brought on after a fever, colds or in times of stress when our immune system is down. Cold sores are spread by kissing, sharing of utensils, glasses, lip balms, etc. Once the virus has entered your body, it can take up to 20 days after exposure for the cold sore to appear. The sores then normally last 7-10 days and are considered contagious until they crust over. Because of this, we recommend rescheduling any dental appointments until you are no longer considered contagious.