Acute Herpetic Gingivostomatitis

This condition, that is caused by the herpes simplex virus, is most often seen in children and young adults. It is highly contagious for about 7 days and will be present in saliva and all other secretions- so be extra careful during this period.

Often you will feel unwell, with a temperature and swollen glands. You may also get a sore throat, severe gingivitis and many painful little ulcers in your mouth.

Most of the time treatment is the good old, ‘lots of fluid and bed rest’ scenario, taking painkillers and medication to reduce the fever if you need to. The sore ulcers can be helped somewhat by topical applications of an analgesic such as Bonjela or SM33 and our trusted friend the chlorhexidine mouthwash.

This condition re-activates as herpes labilais more commonly known as cold sores.