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The Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention of Oral Herpes | Central Park West Dentist

Oral herpes, commonly known as cold sores or fever blisters, is a prevalent viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). While it may not be a comfortable topic to discuss, understanding oral herpes is crucial for promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and preventing its spread.

Symptoms

Oral herpes typically manifests as small, painful blisters or sores around the mouth, lips, or gums. These lesions can be accompanied by itching, burning, or tingling sensations. The initial outbreak is often more severe than subsequent ones and may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms, such as fever and swollen glands.

Transmission

HSV-1, the primary cause of oral herpes, is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or their saliva. The virus can also spread through shared items like utensils or towels. While oral herpes is commonly associated with kissing, it can be transmitted through various forms of close personal contact.

Treatment

Although there is no cure for oral herpes, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. Over-the-counter creams and ointments may provide relief, but prescription medications are often more effective in controlling the virus. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Prevention

Preventing the transmission of oral herpes involves practicing good hygiene and being mindful of personal contact. Avoiding close contact with individuals experiencing an outbreak, refraining from sharing personal items, and using barrier methods during intimate activities can help reduce the risk of transmission. Furthermore, maintaining a strong immune system through a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can contribute to preventing outbreaks.

Oral herpes is a common condition that, while incurable, can be effectively managed with proper care and treatment. Education and open communication are essential in reducing the stigma associated with the virus and promoting responsible behavior to prevent its spread. If you suspect you have oral herpes or are concerned about the risk of transmission, seek guidance from a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies. Remember, awareness and understanding are key to minimizing the impact of oral herpes on individuals and communities alike.

If you have questions or would like to learn more, give us a call or make an appointment today with Dr. Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Philip Schnall proudly serves Central Park West and all surrounding areas.

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What To Do If Your Child Has A Crossbite | Central Park West Dentist

Learning that you or you or your child may have a cross bite can be an intimidating moment. A cross bite can seriously impact one’s quality of life, and treatments can seem scary. Yet, questions like “how soon should a cross bite be addressed” and “what means of intervention might we take” are better addressed sooner than later.

What does it mean to have a cross bite?

Simply put, a cross bite is when your upper and lower jaws do not align properly. Your upper jaw may rest to the right or left of your lower jaw, causing an improper alignment. This can cause a variety of issues such as grinding down your teeth, temporomandibular joint disorder, inability to chew effectively, facial asymmetry, uneven jaw development, and biting your cheek or tongue frequently.

Treatment options

Opinions are divided about when to begin treatment for a cross bite, some suggesting at the time of diagnosis (for a child, this could mean around the age of three), while others want to wait until a child’s molars arrive (commonly around the age of six). No matter when you decide to begin treatment, dentists and orthodontists alike agree a cross bit should not be left untreated for the reasons mentioned above.

Depending on the kind of cross bite, and how severe the misalignment is, its likely treatment will involve dental appliances that work to correct the bite pattern. This can be in the form of braces, sagittal expanders, and retainers that all work to correct the alignment over time. These methods are commonly employed when the entire alignment is off. If misalignment is being caused by a single tooth, it is more likely that a dental face mask, clear aligners, or braces are employed.

While crossbites are not very common, they are generally considered a genetic occurrence. In the case of discovering your young child has a crossbite, it should be treated before they sustain permanent damage to their face and jaw. Listen to all the options provided by your dentist, and choose the course of action that best suits your child.

If you have questions or concerns about your child’s jaw or crossbite, make an appointment today with Dr. Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.

Dr. Philip Schnall proudly serves Central Park West and all surrounding areas.