Tooth infections can be painful and lead to serious health issues if left untreated. If you are experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or sensitivity, your tooth might be infected. Recognizing the symptoms early and getting prompt treatment can prevent further complications.
What Is a Tooth Infection?
A tooth infection happens when bacteria enter the tooth through a cavity, crack, or injury. This infection can spread to the root of the tooth and cause an abscess, a pocket of pus that forms in response to the infection. If untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, leading to severe health risks.
Common Signs of a Tooth Infection
- Persistent Tooth Pain
A sharp, throbbing, or lingering pain in your tooth is often a sign of infection. The pain may intensify when chewing or applying pressure. - Swelling in the Face or Gums
An infected tooth can cause swelling in your gums, jaw, or face. The area around the tooth may appear red and puffy. - Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
If you experience sharp pain when drinking hot coffee or eating ice cream, it could mean that bacteria have reached the inner part of your tooth, causing nerve irritation. - Foul Taste or Bad Breath
A tooth infection can produce pus, which leads to a bad taste in your mouth and persistent bad breath, even after brushing and flossing. - Fever and General Discomfort
If the infection spreads, your body may react by raising your temperature. Fever, fatigue, and feeling unwell can be signs that your body is fighting off an infection. - Swollen Lymph Nodes
The lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck may swell as your body attempts to fight the infection. - A Pimple-Like Bump on Your Gums
This bump, called a dental abscess, may leak pus and cause discomfort. It is a sign that the infection is present and needs professional treatment. - Difficulty Opening Your Mouth or Swallowing
If the infection spreads, it may cause stiffness and difficulty moving your jaw, making it hard to eat, talk, or open your mouth fully.
What Causes a Tooth Infection?
- Untreated Cavities – Bacteria from plaque can eat away at the enamel, leading to decay and infection.
- Cracked or Chipped Teeth – A damaged tooth allows bacteria to reach the inner layers of your tooth.
- Gum Disease – Severe gum infections can cause abscesses and lead to tooth infections.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Not brushing and flossing regularly allows bacteria to grow and spread.
- Previous Dental Work – Improperly fitted crowns or fillings can trap bacteria, leading to infection.
- Weakened Immune System – If your body has difficulty fighting infections, bacteria in your mouth can spread more easily.
Treatment Options for a Tooth Infection
If you suspect a tooth infection, see a dentist as soon as possible. Treatment options include:
- Antibiotics – Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate the infection before further treatment.
- Root Canal Therapy – This procedure removes infected pulp inside the tooth to save it from extraction.
- Tooth Extraction – If the tooth is severely damaged, it may need to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading.
- Drainage of Abscess – If there is an abscess, your dentist may drain the pus to relieve pain and pressure.
A tooth infection will not go away on its own. If you are experiencing any symptoms, call Suncreek Dental Group at (303) 933-2522 to schedule an appointment. Early treatment can prevent serious complications and save your tooth.
Category: General