Cold Sores

Cold sores can be painful, persistent, and frustrating—especially when they reappear in the same spot. One of the most advanced in-office treatments available today is the CO₂ laser. Here’s a brief look at how it works and why it can be effective for cold sore removal.

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What Is a CO₂ Laser?

A CO₂ (carbon dioxide) laser is a medical laser that emits a concentrated beam of light at a wavelength highly absorbed by water in the skin’s cells. Because our skin tissue contains a high percentage of water, the laser energy can precisely target and vaporize affected tissue without significantly impacting the surrounding healthy skin.

How the CO₂ Laser Treats Cold Sores

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), which lies dormant in nerve tissue and can reactivate periodically. When a cold sore outbreak is in its early stage—or even fully developed—the CO₂ laser can be used to:

Ablate the lesion: The laser gently removes the infected surface tissue by vaporizing the cells that contain active virus particles.
Reduce viral load: By destroying the affected tissue, the laser helps decrease the concentration of the virus at the site.
Stimulate healing: The laser energy also promotes collagen remodeling and triggers the body’s natural healing response, often leading to faster recovery.

What to Expect During Treatment

The procedure is typically performed in-office and takes only a few minutes. A topical anesthetic may be applied to ensure comfort. Patients often describe the sensation as brief warmth or mild stinging. After treatment, the area may appear slightly red or swollen for a short time. Healing generally occurs quickly, and many patients experience reduced pain and shorter outbreak duration compared to letting the sore heal on its own.

Potential Long-Term Benefits

In addition to treating an active outbreak, some patients report fewer recurrences in the treated area. While the laser does not cure HSV-1 or eliminate the virus from the body, it may help disrupt the pattern of repeated outbreaks at the same site.

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Is CO₂ Laser Cold Sore Treatment Right for You?

CO₂ laser treatment is best performed early in the outbreak process—ideally at the first sign of tingling or redness. A consultation with a qualified medical professional can determine whether this option fits your needs.

If you struggle with frequent or severe cold sores, CO₂ laser therapy may offer a fast, precise, and effective solution to reduce discomfort and speed healing.

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      Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Finally, I am out of pain, and I can hear better! I was referred by an ENT to see a TMJ specialist. Now, I am a dental hygienist so this offended me. It is hard to find a Dentist who actually cares about the TMJ. I use to work for Dr. Gunnerson along time ago so when I found out this is his new specialty, I had no problem scheduling for answers. He fixed me right up! It was a very long journey but I can truly say the treatment worked for me. Even though I went in for ear pain and hearing problems, I learned how many tmj issues I also had. I needed mylo and Mindy is an amazing teacher who takes her time and makes sure you understand so you can fully heal. I also took my laptop to every single visit; just in case I got stuck waiting at an appointment and I never had time to get it out, not even once! I am beyond grateful Dr. Gunnerson has found a niche for the TMJ because he is great at it! My daughter is also going through treatment for her airways, it is a one stop shop that you will not regret!
  
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   Lyndsey Lafay 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had the laser done on my sinuses and it was almost instantly clearer and I could breathe! I highly recommend this procedure! Very pleased with the results.
  
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   Denise Purcell 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been struggling with my TMJ for years. I came here a month ago and have been so happy with how they have taken care of me and put a plan into place. Awesome staff, clean office and great communication.
  
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     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Gunnerson has been my dentist since he began his Payson business in 1997.  That tells you everything you need to know :)
  
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   Marie Mitchell 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had clicking and discomfort in my jaw which led me to Dr. Gunnerson and I will be forever grateful to find his clinic! I had so many questions and it can be very confusing figuring out what’s going on with your body and they made it so clear what was happening and developed a plan to help. Within the first few weeks I felt so much better and after 6 months my prior symptoms are gone. It feels incredible to have had their support throughout the process, everyone is so nice and accommodating! If you’re curious I highly recommend getting a consultation!
  
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   Anna Mia 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mindy and the staff were very professional. I was diagnosed from my dentist with Lingual Frencetomy. It’s a condition where your tongue is held down by a tongue tie, and the tongue rest on the bottom of your mouth. Not many people know that the tongue is to rest at the roof of the mouth, a for my entire life I don’t know that. I’ve learn a lot of different breathing techniques, and tongue exercises that strengthen my tongue to eat and drink better; and breath better throughout the day. I think a lot of people should consider this if they have breathing problems to get assess if they have Lingual Frecetomy. Mindy educated me well within her scope of practice, and provide some great solutions to help with sleep. Thank you again for helping me with having great sleep, and feeling refresh during the day.
  
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   Stevemachine “Stevemachine” 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very happy with the experience I had at Dr Gunnerson’s office. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful. Dr Gunnerson promised he would be able to fix my jaw and he did!!  I tried other doctors but they were unable to correct the issues. I’m so glad I went to this office. I would highly recommend anyone who has TMJ issues to talk with them. I’m certain you will get good results!
  
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     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very nice people
  
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Start your journey to better sleep and lasting relief. At The TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of Utah, we help you live pain-free and wake up refreshed. Reach out today to begin your transformation.

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33 W 300 South Suite 1,
Payson, UT 84651