How to Tell if I Have a Tooth Infection

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Sun, 23 Jun 2024 12:31:01 +0000
Cavities, Dental Health, Tooth Infection

Pain in your mouth can be one of the most uncomfortable experiences, especially when it disrupts your ability to eat food or speak. Our bodies experience random changes, and you might be wondering if your tooth pain is simply a random occurrence or an indicator of something more serious. Tooth infections, at the very least, can make daily routines uncomfortable and, at the very worst, lead to life-threatening conditions. Let’s take a deep dive into tooth infections and what you can do to stop them from getting worse.

What Is an Abscessed Tooth?

A tooth infection is usually referred to as an abscessed tooth. These problems are caused by a bacterial infection that leads to a pocket of pus, either visible on the tip of the root (periapical) or beneath the surface near the gums (periodontal). An abscessed tooth can be very painful and lead to the deterioration of your teeth, mouth, gums, and overall health.

What Causes an Abscessed Tooth?

Poor oral hygiene is the main cause of an abscessed tooth. If you don’t care for your teeth, it will lead to deep cavities, chips, and cracks. The longer these chips and cracks exist, the more likely bacteria will enter the space, resulting in inflammation, infection, and tooth abscesses that bring your mouth pain. Some risk factors for tooth infections also include individuals with a diet containing high amounts of sugar and people who have dry mouth, which can increase the likelihood of tooth decay.

What Are Some Signs That My Tooth Is Infected?

So how can one tell if their tooth is infected? Tooth infections are excruciating and will keep most people up at night with the constant throbbing. The best thing you can do is call your dentist for an appointment, but if you still aren’t sure, keep in mind some of these signs:

Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

Changes in your tooth color

Raised swelling around a specific tooth

Trouble moving your jaw

Throbbing mouth pain

Pain that worsens when you lie down

Headaches

Swollen or tender lymph nodes in your neck or jaw

Bad breath or sour tastes in your mouth

Drainage or fluid leaking on your gum near the tooth

Will My Tooth Infection Heal on Its Own?

Unfortunately, your tooth infection won’t heal on its own, and you can even worsen it if left untreated. The infection can take over your gums, jawbone, and the rest of your head. You can even develop sepsis and other life-threatening issues. The best thing anyone can do is call their dentist and get a comprehensive tooth evaluation. Root canals and other endodontic therapy treatments can help save your teeth before things get worse.

Bloom Dental of Arlington Can Help Treat Your Tooth Infection

A tooth infection can be an annoying and painful experience, but the last thing you want to do is let your tooth pain linger for much longer. Why leave your damaged teeth untreated when you have access to quality endodontics in Arlington, VA, from the specialists at Bloom Dental of Arlington? With our help, you can get root canals, an Apicoectomy, or retreatment for your infected teeth. Looking to prevent tooth infections and any drastic measures to save the rest of your chompers? Get top-of-the-line teeth cleaning services from our team, and you won’t have to worry about tooth pain for years in the future!