Viral Herpetic Gingivostomatitis: What You Need To Know

Viral herpetic gingivostomatitis is a painful condition that causes inflammation and ulceration of the gums, lips, and lining of the mouth. For many people, it comes on suddenly. Often, this condition will present like non-viral gingivitis in the early stages, but symptoms do tend to differ. If you suspect you may have this condition, or your dentist has diagnosed you with it, this article will provide you with the information you need to better understand the condition and how to stay comfortable until it resolves.

Getting a Clear Diagnosis is Important

Because herpetic gingivostomatitis can present in a similar way to gingivitis in its initial stages, it's vital that you receive an accurate diagnosis. The treatment for both conditions varies greatly; often, antibiotics are given to resolve secondary infections in gingivitis.

Conversely, antibiotics won't make any difference in viral stomatitis. At best, antibiotics won't have any effect; at worse, they may even spur on an additional fungal infection called thrush.

Understanding the differences in symptoms can also be helpful. In viral stomatitis, fever is exceptionally common and can be very high. It can also come on very quickly. In uncomplicated, simple gingivitis, fever is fairly rare unless secondary infection is present.

Redness, swelling of the gums, and even gum recession can be present in both diseases, but herpetic gingivostomatitis presents with ulcers similar to canker sores, too.

Herpetic Gingivostomatitis is Extremely Contagious

If you or a loved one is diagnosed with this virus, you should expect to stay fully away from the outside world for at least a few days. Herpetic gingivostomatitis can be transferred to others in many ways:

• Sharing utensils
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Face-to-face contact
• Kissing

In general, close contact should be avoided for at least a week. School-age children should be kept at home and away from other children within the home for a period of time determined by your physician. On average, two weeks is often enough for the virus to clear.

Complications Can Arise for Babies and the Immunocompromised

It is especially important that both adults and children suffering from this condition be kept away from very young babies and the immunocompromised. Complications stemming from herpetic gingivostomatitis can cause serious side effects in these patients.

Patients with immune system disorders, HIV/AIDS, and cancer are considered high-risk. If you, your child, or anyone who has come into contact with a gingivostomatitis patient falls within these categorizations and you believe you may have been exposed, ask your dentist for testing and monitoring immediately. Early treatment is key.

Some of the complications that can arise include:

• Herpes infection of the eye, which can lead to blindness
• Genital herpes infection; usually from touching the mouth and then touching the genitals
• Serious dehydration and/or malnutrition due to pain while eating

Thankfully, the majority of healthy patients who encounter herpetic gingivostomatitis do not experience these complications. Although the condition usually clears up on its own, you should always seek care through your dentist.

Easing the Pain: Comfort Care is Possible

One of the biggest complains dentists receive from patients with herpetic gingivostomatitis is that inflammation and ulcers are very uncomfortable. In advanced cases, the pain may be severe enough to limit a patient's ability to eat. Although pain can be severe, opiate treatment is not usually advised for uncomplicated cases. Studies have shown that opiates tend to be ineffective against other herpes blisters. Additionally, narcotics can dry out the mouth--aggravating an already painful condition.

Topical Treatments

Topical viscous lidocaine can be used multiple times a day. This substance is flavored and comes in a very thick solution that is swished around the mouth whenever relief is needed. Although it's a prescription drug, it's remarkably safe as long as your doctor's directions are followed. Because the drug numbs the mucosal tissues, it's very important not to swallow it at any time--always spit it out after you use it.

IV Nutrition and Antivirals

If complications or severe blisters occur, IV nutrition may be necessary. This is especially true if infants or very young children come down with the illness, as they may not be able to nurse due to discomfort. In extreme viral infections, your dentist may prescribe antivirals.

Self-Care at Home

Nutritionally, many patients switch to a liquid or smooth diet. Smoothies, mashed potatoes, milk, soups, and chowders are all appropriate and can help to provide calories without irritating the mouth. You should also avoid anything sour, spicy, or strongly flavored, as they may increase irritation. Milk of magnesia has shown some ability to soothe blisters, but should be used sparingly and spit into the sink after swishing to prevent side effects.

Viral herpetic Gingivostomatitis may be painful, but most patients get through it just fine with self-care and careful monitoring by a qualified dentist. If you believe that you or a loved one may be suffering from this condition, it's crucial that you seek a proper diagnosis. Contact your local dentist today to schedule an appointment.