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Explore›Medical Conditions in Dentistry›Active herpetic infections (HSV / VZV)

Active herpetic infections (HSV / VZV)

Dental riskcritical

HSV (herpes simplex): primary gingivostomatitis or recurrent herpes labialis are highly contagious via direct contact with lesions/saliva. VZV (varicella-zoster): varicella (chickenpox) is highly contagious (airborne + contact); herpes zoster (shingles) is contagious from lesion fluid until crusted, with dissemination risk in immunocompromised. KEY DENTAL PRINCIPLES: (1) defer elective care during active lesions, (2) antibiotics NOT indicated for viral lesions, (3) trigeminal zoster → urgent medical/ophthalmology referral if eye involved, (4) antivirals most effective when started early.

The full condition entry includes

  • Safe vs avoid lists: antibiotics, analgesics, local anesthetics
  • Vasoconstrictor limits and treatment modifications
  • Pre/intra/post-op monitoring and deferral criteria
  • Emergency management, explained for study
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More medical conditions in dentistry

Infective endocarditis risk (highest-risk group)Tuberculosis (active vs latent)PheochromocytomaNeutropenia (chemo-related)Leukemia/lymphoma (active treatment)Active tuberculosisFever of unknown origin / suspected systemic infectionHypertension (uncontrolled / hypertensive urgency)Ischemic heart disease (stable angina, recent/old MI)Heart failure (compensated vs decompensated)Arrhythmias (atrial fibrillation, SVT, ventricular)Valvular heart disease / Prosthetic heart valves

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