Onychomycosis, more commonly known as toenail fungus, is a common and persistent infection. Many people struggle with it for years, either because they believe it cannot be cured or because previous treatments didn’t work. While toenail fungus can be stubborn, it is treatable, and the key is knowing your options and committing to the right course of action.
Keep Trying Until You Find the Right Treatment
If you’ve previously tried a toenail fungus treatment without success, don’t give up. Not all treatments are created equal, and what didn’t work before might not reflect the full range of options available today. Educating yourself about toenail fungus and consulting a podiatrist can make all the difference. Nail specialists have treated hundreds of cases, and they can guide you toward the safest and most effective treatments.
Recommended Treatments for Toenail Fungus
Topical Treatments
Topical solutions, such as antifungal creams or nail lacquers, are applied directly to the nail. While convenient, they have a low cure rate of 5–10% because they often cannot reach the fungus beneath the nail bed. For severe infections, topical treatments alone are rarely effective. However, they can be used after laser treatment to help prevent reinfection.
Oral Medications
Oral antifungal medications are more effective than topicals, but they come with serious risks, including liver toxicity. Blood tests are often required to monitor for potential side effects, making this option less appealing for many patients. The cure rate for oral medication is roughly 60%, and for these reasons, our doctors typically do not recommend oral medication as a first choice.
Laser Treatment – The Most Effective Option
The FDA-approved PinPointe laser is the safest and most effective treatment for toenail fungus. It uses targeted heat to kill fungus beneath the nail without damaging surrounding tissue.
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Cure rate: Approximately 85%
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Treatment sessions: Usually just one visit
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Recovery: None, allowing you to resume daily activities immediately
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Side effects: Virtually none, making it safe for most patients
Our nail doctors in Littleton, CO, have extensive experience with the PinPointe laser and recommend it for most cases. Patients often see new, healthy nails growing in 6–9 months, depending on nail growth rate.
Signs and Symptoms of Toenail Fungus
Early detection of toenail fungus increases treatment success. Look for:
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Discoloration: Yellow, white, brown, or black spots
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Thickening or brittleness: Nails may become hard, crumbly, or distorted
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Odor: Some fungal infections produce a noticeable smell
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Separation from the nail bed: Advanced infections may cause nails to lift
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a podiatrist promptly. Early treatment is easier and more effective.
Post-Treatment Care and Prevention
Even after successful treatment, nails can be reinfected if proper care isn’t maintained. Our nail doctors recommend:
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Keeping feet clean and dry
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Changing socks and shoes regularly
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Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like gyms or pools
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Using antifungal sprays or solutions on nails and shoes
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Sterilizing or replacing nail tools used during infection
Following these steps can help protect your nails long-term and reduce the chances of recurring infections.
Why Not Nail Removal?
Some patients consider removing the nail completely to treat the fungus. However, surgical nail removal does not guarantee a cure, as the fungus can remain in the nail bed. The procedure also comes with a long recovery period, potential pain, and the risk of complications. The PinPointe laser offers a non-invasive, safer alternative with proven results.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you have signs of toenail fungus, our Littleton, CO nail doctors can help. The PinPointe laser provides a fast, safe, and highly effective solution for stubborn infections.
Call (800) 672-0625 or visit our website to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthy, clear nails.
