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Shingles is a painful skin rash that is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. People who contract chickenpox as children may develop antibodies that help them fight the virus. Herpes simplex type-1 (HSV-1) is a virus that causes chickenpox and, more rarely, shingles in adults. After you’ve had chicken pox, the virus lies dormant in your nerve cells. It can reactivate at any time and cause shingles. 

The symptoms of shingles include a blistering rash on one side of the body or face that may eventually form skin ulcers. This can occur anywhere on the body but usually appears on the torso or back. Other symptoms include fever, headache, chills, upset stomach, and fatigue. These symptoms usually last two to four weeks. Complications can include eye problems. If you suspect you have shingles, contact your dentist as soon as possible for treatment. Antibiotics can shorten the duration and severity of the illness.

Antiviral medication can be taken to treat this infection, and your primary care physician should be notified immediately when it arises. While the virus that causes the condition is contagious, it can be treated with antibiotics as prescribed by a physician. Let your dentist know that you are diagnosed with shingles to determine the best course of action. 

If you suspect you are suffering from shingles, you should not schedule your appointment with your dentist until you have talked to your primary care physician. Once they know you have been diagnosed by a specialist, they can let you know if you should wait to have any dental procedures performed. If you are in pain due to these sore lesions, they will usually provide a prescription for pain medication you can use until it goes away on its own.

Will Dental Treatment be Delayed if I Develop a Shingles Outbreak?

If the infection is severe enough, you may need to wait to receive treatment in your dental office. However, if you have mild symptoms, your dentist may be able to treat you right away. Your dentist may prescribe a prescription-strength antiviral medication to minimize your symptoms and reduce the risk of scarring. Once you’re on the road to recovery, you can resume your dental care treatments as normal.

If you need any help, schedule a consultation with our team today! Please reach out to our dental practice in Mission Viejo, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Lee, or call us at (949) 380-0315.