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Modern, Safe & Painless
Using the latest technology
Established over 35 Years
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What are cold sores?

Cold sores are the consequence of a viral infection. They usually appear on the lips and nostrils but can be more widespread.

If you have an upcoming appointment and you have a cold sore you must contact the practice to inform them.

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What Are The Symptoms?

The first signs are usually tingling, burning or itching. Within 24 hours painful blisters form. Blisters breakdown into shallow ulcers after a few days.

Cold sores are infectious from the early tingling stage up to the end of the ulcer phase. Healing is normally complete in 10 to 14 days.

In children cold sores can become infected with bacteria and develop impetigo.

You can catch cold sores by:

  • Directly touching a cold sore
  • Kissing someone with a cold sore
  • Sharing household objects such as towels, cups and cutlery

Why do they keep
coming back?

After the first infection, the virus lies dormant in the nerve that supplies the infected area. The virus can be reactivated at any time and cause another cold sore. Various trigger factors are: stress, fatigue, strong sunlight, UV light from sun beds, menstruation or pregnancy and generally when feeling run-down.

Are cold sores a
serious health problem?

Yes. Cold sores can cause an eye infection (herpes keratitis) that can lead to blindness, cold sores on the fingers and genital herpes. People with eczema can become very ill if they pick up the virus.

If you have a cold sore, wash your hands thoroughly if you accidentally touch it.

Do not:

  • Touch the cold sore
  • Touch your eyes during the infection
  • Kiss (especially children) when you have the infection
  • Pick the ulcers or the scab. You will infect your fingers with the virus
  • Share eating/drinking utensils with others, especially children
  • Share the same towels or face cloths with others in your family

Why Choose Stella Maris?

For over 35 years, we’ve been helping thousands of people regain their confidence to smile. With us, you can benefit from a comprehensive and preventative dental programme bespoke to you.

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David Jones
David Jones
2023-11-20
An extremely professional service, very friendly and helpful, would have no hesitation in recommending this practice
Jacqui Walters
Jacqui Walters
2023-10-24
Always have a positive experience, from reception staff, hygienist, dentist. After seven years of using Stella Maris I would never go anywhere else, thoroughly recommend paying them a visit.
jean lemba
jean lemba
2023-10-17
I've been a regular dental patient at Stella Maris Dental practice for the past 3 years, and it's been the best experience ever. In terms of treatment plan, customers services, care and professional nursing staff and top quality treatments by the most experienced and qualified dental practitioners. What I like the most about Stella Maris is the feeling of being part of a "family practice", which comes from their attention to details, care centred around the patient well being and satisfaction throughout the entire treatment period. I strongly recommend Stella Maris practice for anyone looking to brighten their smile. P.S. Special thanks to Mr Namih, Hygienist and caring nursing staff.
Dawn Condron
Dawn Condron
2023-10-12
I have been using this practice for many many years. Both my husband and I are very happy with the service we receive and the staff are lovely. A special thanks to Dr Namih who first treated me back when I was a nipper(over 30 years ago)! Would never go anywhere else. Thank you all xx Dawn and Rob xx
Charley - J
Charley - J
2023-10-07
Have been going to Stella Maris now for over 5 years. Can honestly say they have all looked after me since I first started going. Dr Namih has been amazing doing all of my treatments. He has always made sure that I’m comfortable and never in any discomfort. I’m so grateful I get to smile feeling confident and that’s all down to his work. I was so scared of dentists after my first experience elsewhere & now I will never go anywhere else. You are all like family & I’m lucky to have found somewhere that treats my dental health so well!
Rois Jones
Rois Jones
2023-09-27
I’m posting this regarding my nans experience with Stella Maris and Mr Namih. She has been with Mr Namih for 30 years +. And says she couldn’t possibly change dentists now because of the high level of treatment received 👌🏼😃
richard whittle
richard whittle
2023-09-18
excellent service been going there for 30 years and it Is painless
kim follis
kim follis
2023-09-15
I have just completed a 19 week course of Invisalign for straightening of upper and lower teeth. Plus whitening and composite bonding to three teeth that were chipped. I feel that Hema gave a fabulous service, she demonstrated professionalism, integrity and perfectionism throughout my treatment. I have been delighted with the results and have recommended to family and friends who are interested in having their teeth improved. Sarah and the reception team are extremely helpful and personable. It is always a pleasure to go to Stella Maris Dental for their care and service.
Joyce Gardner
Joyce Gardner
2023-08-31
For several years, I had been embarrassed and self-conscious about my teeth. I had lost several teeth over the years and those left were badly discoloured. I am of a generation when dentists would fill your teeth for no reason or take them out. I was always self-conscious when talking to people about how unsightly my teeth looked. Well not any more I have the biggest smile in the world thanks to Dr Namhi and his fabulous team. Stella Martis came recommended by a friend of a friend and the rest is history. I have had the works, fillings, crowns, veneers, and implants over the last 18 months. I can honestly say the difference it has made to my confidence and wellbeing is incredible. Having the initial consultation with Dr Namhi, he took his time to explain what was involved, putting a plan together, prioritising what needed to be done first. I am glad to say that treatment was relatively painless, how he administers an injection without causing pain is fabulous. Every step of the way Dr Namhi continued to explain fully the treatment for that visit and what the following appointment would entail. I would always receive a call the following morning to make sure you are alright after treatment and if I had any problems to call them. All staff are so friendly, courteous and welcoming. It is always a pleasure to visit the surgery, it is like visiting family. I would highly recommend Stella Martis Practice to anybody who is looking for a dentist. My sincere thanks has got to go to the dental nurses, receptionists, hygienist, but I have to say my personal thanks has got to be to Dr Namhi himself who has transformed my life totally, his patience, precision, expertise, skill, and friendliness is showing in my smile every day.

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Comprehensive dental examination for only £100 with Dr. Hema Arora

Your mouth will be examined and you’ll be given advice for moving forward with your treatment.

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Spread the costof your investment

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Don’t compromise your dental care by going for second best or delaying treatment. Go for the very best that modern dentistry can offer and spread your investment with our 0% finance.

  • Spread the fees over 24 months (for treatments valued over £300.00)
  • No interest to pay whatsoever
  • No deposit required - but is optional

* Up to 24 months is interest free. If you would like to take finance over a longer period then an interest charge will apply.

** Interest free finance spread across up to 24 months for treatments valued over £300.00

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