Your teeth are filled with nerves, which is why toothache, though affecting just a small region of the mouth, is no small matter. Toothache pain may be crippling and is typically a sign of a deeper problem. Tooth infections may be the cause of your toothache, resulting in soreness, tenderness, or serious pain in your mouth. Tooth infections are no must be addressed immediately by a professional. So, what are the signs of a tooth infection? Dr. O'Grady, an emergency dentist in Denver, CO, explores the common causes of a tooth infection and how to treat it.
A tooth infection is quite serious, which is why it's important to recognize the signs and symptoms. First, you may notice that your tooth is throbbing or feels sore. A toothache can be a result of a few dental problems. If your tooth becomes infected, you may experience discomfort, redness, swelling, and a foul taste in your mouth. In certain cases, Dr. O'Grady says it's possible that you broke your tooth. However, tooth infections may also go undetected deep inside your teeth, without any external symptoms other than pain and swelling.
Some of the signs that a small cavity has advanced to tooth infection include:
Denver, CO dentists, agree that if you have both fever and swelling or problems breathing or swallowing, you should immediately seek medical attention. This is a symptom of a serious infection that may have spread to your jawbone and surrounding areas. If necessary, call your emergency dentist in Denver, CO, for same-day dental services. If you somehow can't see your dentist, go to the ER.
Most dental infections are caused by severe tooth decay. Bacteria like to feed on the enamel and will eventually hit the tooth's nerve. As a result, an abscess will form. Abscessed teeth need care from your Denver Highlands dentist, and the longer you wait for treatment, the more complicated the infection may become. Any tooth may become abscessed because all your teeth have sensitive tissue susceptible to infection. Some people are more susceptible to tooth infections, but that doesn't mean they can't be prevented. Dr. Leeson, a St. Pete dentist, adds that if the tooth infection is not treated, it can eventually enter the jaw bone and lead to a need for comprehensive oral surgery. So, it is important to call for an appointment as soon as you suspect a potential infection.
If you've developed a tooth infection, your Denver, CO dentist will likely recommend root canal therapy to save and restore your tooth. Root canals include the drilling of the tooth to enter the infected spot, the infection is removed, and the canal is washed with an antibacterial solution, and the dental crown is then placed over the tooth to protect and stabilize it. Root canals aren't painful as many people think. Since everyone's smile is unique, the procedure can be minor or major. Your Denver, CO dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to treat your infection.
No one wants to deal with the discomfort and damage caused by a tooth infection, which is why prevention is crucial. Broken teeth can't always be avoided, but cavities caused by bad oral habits can be. Our friend Dr. Kim, a dentist Lexington, KY, recommends that all patients brush at least twice a day for two minutes long. Brushing and flossing regularly will kill bacteria that can penetrate the enamel and contribute to dental decay. You can also avoid infection by visiting your dentist on an annual basis. At our dental office in Denver, CO, our team will professionally clean and exam your teeth. Dental x-rays are also necessary for finding cavities or other weak points. The goal is to address potential problems before they progress into something more severe, like tooth infections.
Don't let a bad toothache turn into a tooth infection. If you're experiencing any of the above signs, contact OG Dental in Denver, CO. Our team will work with you to fix the problem and get you smiling again. For more information about our dental services or dental membership savings plans, call us today!
