Life is hard, but it gets harder with a tooth infection. This will bring a distressing time for you. As an experienced dentist at an emergency dental in Newmarket explains, a tooth infection can be considered a dental emergency and needs urgent action from a dentist. You may have questions like what exactly tooth infection is, what the signs are, and when you need urgent dental treatment. In this article, we’ll tackle these issues and more. This piece will provide complete information on tooth infections and what to do next.
Introduction: Understanding Tooth Infections
The tooth infection, also called “dental abscess, ” occurs in the tooth’s pulp or root. Bacteria cause this type of infection. The tooth tissue, which is home to nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues, will host the bacteria, too. When bacteria get into the pulp area, they may create an infection. This infection can lead to inflammation, swelling, and the formation of pus.
What Causes Tooth Infections?
Various reasons may lead to infection, including bad dental hygiene, an untreated cavity, gum disease, or teeth injuries. When bacteria find their way to the pulp space, they will quickly multiply, which results in an abscess or a pocket of pus around the tooth’s root.
Symptoms of a Tooth Infection for Seeking Emergency Dental Care
The signs of a tooth infection may vary from patient to patient. Some of them are listed below:
- Severe toothache which is not only in the oral space; it can be felt in the jaw, ear, or neck
- Swelling gums or face
- Sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures
- Chills or fever
- Bad mouth odors or taste in your mouth
- Difficulty in breathing or swallowing
If you are experiencing one of the symptoms listed above, you need to visit a dentist immediately. Delay in the treatment may lead to additional problems, and urgent dental treatment may be required.
Why Tooth Infections Can Be Dangerous
Tooth infections can be dangerous for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, they have the potential to cause pain and discomfort, which can significantly disrupt one’s daily tasks like eating or sleeping. Moreover, these infections can spread to other parts of the body, such as the heart, lungs, and brain. This can lead to severe and life-threatening complications. Neglecting to address an infection on the teeth could lead to permanent and irreversible damage, ultimately resulting in tooth loss and many other dental health issues.
Treatment Options for Tooth Infections
The treatment for a tooth infection depends on its severity and the amount of damage to the tooth. Usually, dentists will do a root canal procedure to remove the infected part of the tooth and clean it out. They might also prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation. In rare cases, the tooth may need to be taken out altogether.
Prevention of Tooth Infections
The best way to prevent dental infections is to practice good dental hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing often, and regularly seeing your dentist for checkups and cleanings. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks and quitting smoking can also go a long way in preventing tooth infections.
