A tooth infection is not merely an inconvenience.  When an infection is not treated, it can spread.  This can result in tooth loss, jaw problems, and a weakened immune system.  An infection can spread to your sinuses and even your brain.  Death from infective endocarditis can occur, most commonly in patients who have certain heart conditions.  Stay alert to signs of a tooth infection, and treat it as an oral health emergency.

How Do You Know You Have A Tooth Infection?

You need an examination to diagnose a tooth infection, but keep the most common signs in mind.  Contact your dentist if you notice any of these symptoms.  Do not wait for your next regular dental appointment.

You may experience a throbbing pain in one of your teeth.  The pain may also occur in your neck or jawbone.  Your cheek may become swollen.  Your gums may be tender or red.

You may experience sensitivity when pressure is applied to the tooth, or the area surrounding the tooth.  You may also experience sensitivity if it is exposed to cold or hot foods or beverages.  Your lymph nodes may be swollen, or you may develop a fever.

You may have bad breath, or a horrible taste in your mouth, even if you have brushed your teeth and used mouthwash.

What Causes A Tooth Infection?

Tooth infections can be caused by cracked teeth, gum disease, or tooth decay.  A crack may be too small to notice, or a cavity may be deep within the tooth.  The symptoms can be your first sign that something is wrong with your tooth, or that you have gum disease.

How Are Tooth Infections Treated?

If you believe you have an infection, you should not try to deal with it yourself.  While home remedies may provide temporary relief, they will not resolve the problem.  An infection cannot be cured by rinsing with salt water, using herbal products, or taking pain relievers.  You need immediate, professional dental care.

Treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the infection.  Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria.  He may drain the infection.  The infection may need to be cleaned out.  In serious cases, a root canal treatment may be performed.

It is only a myth that root canal procedures are extremely painful.  While the infection itself can be painful, the procedure can end the pain.

There is no reason to fear treatment for a tooth infection.  You should want to avoid all the potential complications that may occur if it is left untreated.

Your oral health is important, and so is your general health.  Prompt, appropriate treatment for a tooth infection can help you stay healthy.  You can avoid unnecessary pain and unnecessary complications.  Do not use home remedies, or wait to see if the symptoms will worsen. Contact us as soon as you notice signs of a tooth infection.  You can have the treatment that best suits your particular situation, and be on your way back to total oral health.