Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if your cold sore is new, open, or actively weeping, it is best to postpone routine dental appointments. This reduces the risk of spreading the virus to others and ensures a more comfortable treatment experience for you. Please call the practice as soon as you notice a cold sore and we will be able to advise and reschedule your appointment. For more information on cold sores and your dentist click here.

You can safely visit the dentist once your cold sore has fully healed. This means the blister has dried up, a scab has formed, and there is no pain or tenderness. Healing typically takes about 7 to 10 days. For more information on cold sores and your dentist click here.

Yes, cold sores are highly contagious, especially in the first few days. The virus can spread to others, including dental staff, or to other parts of your body during treatment if precautions are not taken. For more information on cold sores and your dentist click here.

To minimise the risk of spreading the virus: Keep the sore clean and dry. Avoid touching the sore. Use antiviral creams or treatments. Avoid sharing personal items like towels or utensils. Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently. For more information on cold sores and your dentist click here.

A cold sore is a small, fluid-filled blister caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). It is highly contagious and can interfere with dental procedures if active. Visiting the dentist with a cold sore increases the risk of spreading the virus and may complicate your treatment. For more information on cold sores and your dentist click here.

If you visit the dentist with a cold sore, the dental team will first make an assessment as to whether it is safe to continue with the scheduled treatment. If the dentist decides that it is unsafe to continue then they will arrange for the Reception team to reschedule your appointment to give your cold sore time to heal. If the dentist decides that it will be safe to continue then they will take extra precautions such as wearing protective barriers and/or using a barrier on the sore itself. Some treatments may be delayed or adjusted to avoid irritating the sore.

Yes! This is a new feature that we will be rolling out to all our patients by the end of the year. Please click here to access your records and sign your forms.

We don’t have a separate hygienist because our dentists provide a full scale and polish during your examination. This helps them get a better understanding of your oral health. If you need specialist periodontal work, we’ll refer you to a local expert.