Pain Relief – Part 7 – More, more Lesions / Medications – Viral
Relief of viral pain is generally preventative, and early detection and treatment and what not do!
Some examples of viral infections include Herpes Virus infection (Herpes Simples Type 1), Human Papilloma Virus infection, Coxsackie Virus infection, Mumps, Measles (rubeola), and Rubella, and even AIDS.
However, the most common viral infection in the mouth is with the Herpes Simplex Type 1. It is estimated that 97% of people have the Herpes Type 1 virus. (Type 2 Herpes virus is found in the genitals).
Its initial infection tends to involve the whole of the mouth, causing and inflamed red colour amongst a great number of ulcers. Before an ulcer forms, it is a vesicle i.e. fluid filled bubble of liquid containing the virus. This then bursts after a short period and the exposed next layer of the body, the connective tissue or dermis, is exposed forming the ulcer.
This is very infective episode. The virus is released to infiltrate more cells, to force the DNA of the cell to make more viruses. Eventually the body’s immune system kicks it. The virus retreats to hide amongst the nerve tissue. The body won’t attack the virus here as it is hidden by its own nerve tissue.
The primary or first infection of Herpes Simplex affects the whole mouth causing multiple ulcers and a highly inflamed mouth. It is raw, red and sore. It can last 1-3 weeks.
Antibiotics will not work for viruses!
Taking antiviral oral medications, such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir.
Applying antiviral topical ointments, such as acyclovir and penciclovir.
These antivirals are most effective in the first 48 hours.
Because of its wide spread nature of its infection the following may need to supplement the antiviral treatments –
Using over-the-counter topical mouthwash anaesthetics such as Cepacaine
Difflam is an anti-inflammatory mouth wash.
Anti-inflammatory agents to alleviate symptoms such as Nurofen and Panadol.
Seek proper medical attention with fevers.
Secondary infection occurs when the immune system is compromised and the virus comes out of hiding to reinfect the body (its host). This typically occurs on the lips, typically called Cold Sores.
Antiviral agents, such as Acyclovir, if used early, can prevent the virus infecting neighbouring cells.
These medications are effective when used as soon as you feel a tingling in the corner of the lip. Waiting for an obvious cold sore is too late!
The AIDS/HIV virus attacks the T-cells used in the body’s immune system. The immune system is so weakened, that rare diseases, conditions and cancers occur. Hairy leucoplakia is a common early lesion found in AIDS.
Seek proper medical attention, to help treat the compromised immune system.
Other Viruses, such as Mumps, Measles (rubeola), and Rubella, are best prevented with a vaccine.
A vaccine is a part of the virus or deactivated virus, which the body can use to make antibodies against the virus. The body is then ready to attack the virus before it can spread.
Finally keep it to yourself, don’t share the love please!
Need an Appointment?
If you’d like to book an appointment with the dentist at Seymour Dental then call us in Dulwich Hill, Sydney on (02) 9564 2397 or
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Next week
Pain Relief - Part 8 – More, more Lesions / Medications - Autoimmune, Cancer