Helpful Tips for Treating Your Cold Sores at Home

Posted on 5/15/2016 by Raymond Liu

A man covering his mouth, because he's suffering from cold sores!

Cold sores can be the source of considerable embarrassment, and if you are experiencing an outbreak, you'll likely do anything to get rid of them as soon as possible.

While you won't be able to completely treat your cold sores, there are ways to speed up the healing process. Use some of these tips in order to get your beautiful, sore-free smile back as soon as possible.

Reducing the Symptoms

If you have a cold sore, there are a few steps that you can take in order to reduce the symptoms and your discomfort. Try to avoid acidic foods, and if your mouth is sore, use a mouthwash that contains baking soda.

Over the counter pain medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help with your discomfort, and a cool, wet washcloth over the sore can help to reduce swelling and the redness that often comes with cold sores.

Reducing the Frequency of Outbreaks

Once your cold sore outbreak has finally subsided, you will likely be quite relieved. However, you shouldn't forget about them. Another outbreak could be just around the corner, so try a few of these tips to reduce the frequency of your outbreaks:

•	Avoid sharing drinking glasses, toothbrushes, razors, utensils, and towels with anyone else that might have cold sores.
•	Stay away from foods that tend to trigger cold sore outbreaks, including chocolate or nuts.
•	Avoid kissing people who have cold sores.
•	Protect your lips against the sun and harmful UV rays by wearing lip balm that contains sunscreen when outdoors.

If you have cold sores, it is important that you take care not to spread the condition to other people, including your children. Practice good hand washing in your household, and make sure that toys are always cleaned and sanitized. You should also discourage your children from sharing toys that they put in their mouths.

Please contact us if you have any questions about cold sores.

What Our Patients Are Saying About Us

"My family has been under the fantastic care of Dr. Liu for nearly 15 years. He and his entire team have always welcomed us and provide our kids with a comforting and even enjoyable environment. He has always provide honest advise and treatment aimed at our well being. Need a dentist for life? Come here!!!" David Davis Edmonds, WA

READ MORE REVIEWS

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Patient in Edmonds, WA happy with his smile.

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Raymond Liu, DDS offers Dentap Implants in Edmonds, WA

RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY

Edmonds Woman happy with her dental work.

GENERAL AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

21600 Washington 99, Suite 100
Edmonds, WA 98026

Call (425) 310-5789

Office Hours:
Mon-Tues 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
Wed-Thurs 7:30 am - 5:00 pm

CONNECT WITH US

READ OUR REVIEWS

Raymond Liu DDS, 21600 Washington 99, Edmonds, WA, 98026 - Key Phrases: Dentist Edmonds WA; Edmonds Dentist; Dentist Edmonds WA; 425-310-5789; www.drliufamilydental.com; 10/15/2019