Preventive Dental Care
A tooth infection occurs when bacteria enter the inner layers of a tooth, usually through a cavity, crack, or injury. Once inside, the infection can spread to the tooth pulp, the soft tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels, and cause pain, swelling, and other uncomfortable symptoms.
If not treated promptly, this type of infection can quickly escalate into a dental emergency, requiring urgent care to relieve pain and prevent further complications.
Dealing with a tooth infection can be painful and stressful. At Hampden Ave Dental, we help patients dealing with the discomfort and worry that come with infected teeth. Whether it is a mild infection or something more severe, our experienced dental team provides expert and prompt care to protect your long-term oral health.
Let’s explore some common signs and symptoms of an infected tooth and how you can find relief.
Services
Signs & Symptoms of a Tooth Infection
Recognizing the signs of an infected tooth early can help you avoid more serious complications. While every case is a little different, some common symptoms often indicate a problem developing beneath the surface.
- Persistent, Throbbing Pain - This pain is often felt deep within the tooth or surrounding jaw area and typically doesn’t go away on its own.
- Sensitivity to Hot or Cold - A sharp or lingering sensitivity when eating or drinking can be a sign that the inner tooth structure is compromised.
- Swelling in the Face or Jaw - Inflammation around the cheeks, jawline, or under the chin may occur as the infection spreads.
- Swollen or Tender Gums - Red, puffy, or sore gums around a specific tooth could indicate an underlying infection.
- Bad Taste or Bad Breath - A persistent foul taste or odor in the mouth may suggest that pus is draining from the infection site.
- Fever or Feeling Unwell - In some cases, an infection can cause systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes.
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting - Increased discomfort when applying pressure while chewing can signal that the infection has reached sensitive tissue.
While not every case becomes urgent, the severity of these symptoms can escalate quickly. Swelling, severe pain, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth are signs that the infection may be spreading and require emergency dental care.
Seeking prompt treatment helps prevent complications and protects your smile and overall oral health.
Treatment Options for a Tooth Infection
If a dental infection is diagnosed, our dentist may recommend treatment based on the severity of the infection and the condition of the affected tooth.
The main goal is to remove the source of the infection, stop it from spreading, and relieve your discomfort. Here are some of the most common and effective treatment options.
1. Antibiotic Medication
Antibiotics are often prescribed when there is swelling, fever, or signs that the infection may have spread beyond the tooth itself.
While antibiotics can help control the infection, they are not a permanent solution. They cannot eliminate the source of the infection inside the tooth.
If the infection is contained within the tooth, other dental treatments may be required. Without addressing the underlying cause, the infection is likely to return once the antibiotics wear off.
In some cases, when infection is mild and caught early, antibiotics may be the only treatment needed.
2. Root Canal Therapy
If the infection has reached the pulp inside the tooth but the structure of the tooth can still be saved, a root canal is usually the preferred treatment.
During this procedure, the infected tissue is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the space is filled and sealed. A crown may then be placed on top to protect and strengthen the tooth.
3. Tooth Extraction
If the infection has spread extensively and the tooth is too damaged to be saved, tooth extraction may be the best option. Removing the tooth helps eliminate the infection and prevents it from spreading to surrounding teeth, bone, or jawbone.
Once healed, our dentist will discuss options for replacing your missing tooth. This can include options such as a dental implant or bridge.
4. Drainage of an Abscess
In some cases, especially if an abscess has formed, the dentist may need to drain the area to remove pus and reduce pressure and pain. This is often done in combination with other treatments, like antibiotics or a root canal.
At Hampden Ave Dental, we carefully assess your infection and provide effective treatment to ensure your oral health is maintained safely and comfortably.
Home Remedies for Temporary Relief (Not a Cure)
While professional treatment is necessary to fully resolve a dental infection, there are a few things you can do at home to help manage discomfort. These remedies won’t treat the underlying cause, but they may offer temporary relief from pain and swelling.
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. Be sure to follow dosage instructions on the packaging or those provided by your healthcare professional.
2. Saltwater Rinse
Rinsing your mouth gently with warm salt water can help soothe irritated gums and flush out some bacteria from the affected area. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
3. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing short-term relief from pain. Apply for 15-20 minutes at a time with breaks in between.
4. Avoid Trigger Foods
Try to avoid foods and drinks that are extremely hot, cold, or sugary, as these can increase sensitivity and discomfort. Stick to soft foods that are easier to chew and won’t irritate the area further.
Stop Tooth Infections Before They Worsen
Tooth infections should not be ignored; the longer you wait to seek care, the greater the risk of more serious complications. What might start as a simple cavity or minor toothache can quickly turn into something that affects your overall oral health.
At Hampden Ave Dental, we are experienced in diagnosing and treating dental infections with care and precision. Our team is committed to providing solutions that not only address the immediate issue but also help prevent future problems.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a dental infection, we encourage you to contact our office. To schedule a consultation, please call us at 303-985-1263 or request an appointment online.
