What is a tooth infection?
A tooth infection generally occurs when bacteria infect the pulp inside a tooth or the tissues surrounding the tooth. There are a couple of different ways this can happen. An infection may develop from deep tooth decay, a crack or other damage that allows bacteria to reach the pulp, or problems involving the gums and supporting tissues around a tooth.
Determining where the infection is coming from is important because different causes require different types of treatment.
What are the symptoms of a tooth infection?
There are a few different types of symptoms that a patient can have when it comes to tooth infections. The tooth may be very painful, with sharp or radiating pain, or you may experience a persistent dull ache.
Other possible signs can include swelling, tenderness when biting, sensitivity, a pimple-like bump on the gum, or an unpleasant taste if an abscess is draining. Some dental infections may cause few noticeable symptoms, so the absence of pain doesn't necessarily mean there's no problem.
How does a dentist diagnose a tooth infection?
A dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding tissues and may take dental X-rays to look for decay, changes around the root, bone loss, or other findings. We may also perform tests such as checking the tooth's response to temperature, tapping on the tooth, or evaluating the surrounding gums.
A cavity by itself isn't necessarily an infection. The examination helps us determine how far the problem has progressed and whether the pulp, root, gums, or surrounding tissues are involved.
What are the risks of untreated dental infections?
There are several risks associated with leaving a dental infection untreated. The infection can spread beyond the tooth into the surrounding bone, gums, or facial spaces and cause increasing pain and swelling.
Serious complications from dental infections are uncommon, but they can occur. In some cases, an infection can spread into deeper tissues or contribute to a systemic infection such as sepsis.
Swelling that affects the airway is particularly serious. If you have rapidly worsening facial or neck swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or other signs of a severe infection, seek immediate medical care.
What are the treatment options for a tooth infection?
Dental problems come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, so the treatment depends on what's actually causing the problem.
If there's tooth decay that hasn't reached the pulp, treatment may involve a filling or another restoration. If the tooth has significant structural damage, a crown or another restorative treatment may be appropriate.
If the pulp inside the tooth is infected and the tooth can be predictably saved, root canal treatment may be recommended. If the tooth can't be restored, extraction may be necessary, and we can discuss replacement options afterward.
An abscess may also need to be drained depending on its location and the individual situation.
Are antibiotics used for tooth infections?
Antibiotics aren't automatically needed for every tooth infection. They may be prescribed when there are signs that an infection is spreading, systemic symptoms such as fever or malaise, or other clinical reasons that make antibiotics appropriate.
Antibiotics also don't replace the dental treatment needed to address the source of the infection. Depending on the problem, that may involve root canal treatment, drainage, extraction, or another dental procedure.
Are there home remedies for a tooth infection?
Some at-home measures may temporarily help with discomfort, but they don't eliminate an established dental infection. There aren't supplements, ointments, or other home remedies that can replace appropriate dental treatment when the pulp or surrounding tissues are infected.
If you think you have a tooth infection, the important thing is to have the area evaluated so we can identify the source and recommend appropriate treatment.
When should you see a dental professional for a tooth infection?
If you're experiencing persistent tooth pain, swelling around a tooth or the jaw, pain when biting, drainage, or another possible sign of infection, contact a dental professional promptly. We want to address the problem before it becomes more advanced.
If you develop rapidly worsening swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or other symptoms that could indicate a serious spreading infection, seek immediate emergency medical care.
Your dental health matters to us, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re looking for expert dental care near Tallahassee, FL, call (850) 909-9731 or email [email protected] to learn more. Ready to get started? Schedule your appointment below.