Treating Herpetic Lesions With Laser Therapy

By Leila H. Liberman, RDH, EdD, Trina Hutto, RDH, MS, Angela Dudley, RDH, MA, CHES
Globally, an estimated 3.7 billion people younger than 50 (67%) have herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 infection, which primarily affects the lips, producing what are commonly called cold sores or fever blisters.1 Oral herpes infections are often asymptomatic, but can cause mild to severe symptoms for many, with painful blisters or ulcers at the site of infection.2 Oral ulcers have been associated with infections, autoimmune diseases, and inflammation. Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir, available as tablets, capsules, and topical ointments, are the most commonly prescribed and effective medications.3 These medications can help reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms, but cannot cure the infection.
* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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