Tooth Infection – Symptoms and Treatment

TL;DR

• A tooth infection occurs when bacteria enter the tooth pulp, causing pain, swelling, and abscess formation.
• Without timely treatment, the infection can spread to nearby tissues and lead to serious complications.
• The three main types of tooth infection are periapical, periodontal, and gingival abscesses.
• Common tooth infection symptoms are sharp pain, swelling, fever, foul taste, and sensitivity to temperature.
• The main causes are untreated cavities, cracked teeth, gum disease, and dental injuries.
• Poor oral hygiene, high sugar intake, and dry mouth increase the risk of infection.
• Dentists diagnose a tooth infection through symptom assessment, X-rays, and CT scans.
• Treatment options such as root canal therapy, antibiotics, or tooth extraction help eliminate the infection.
• Preventive care involves daily brushing and flossing, limiting sugar, using mouthwash, and visiting the dentist regularly.

Tooth Infection: Overview

A tooth infection occurs when bacteria reach the inner pulp or surrounding tissues of a tooth, leading to inflammation and pain. This usually happens because of untreated cavities, gum disease, or dental trauma that allows bacteria to enter. Once inside, the bacteria begin to multiply and spread, which can cause an abscess to form. 

If left untreated, the infection may move beyond the tooth and affect other parts of the body, leading to serious complications such as bone infection, sinus involvement, or, in rare cases, sepsis.

It’s therefore important to understand common tooth infection symptoms so you can get the right treatment before it worsens. In addition to symptoms, we will also discuss common causes and treatment options in this article.

3 Common Types of Tooth Infections

The three most common types of tooth infection are:

1. Periapical Abscesses

Periapical abscesses are the most common type of tooth infection, and they occur at the tip of the tooth root because of bacteria or a foreign object that has become lodged in the tooth. However, if left untreated, periapical abscesses can lead to serious health complications.

2. Periodontal Abscesses

Periodontal abscesses are another type of tooth infection that can occur on the gum next to the root of a tooth. Periodontal abscesses often spread to the surrounding tissue and bone, which can be very painful.

3. Gingival Abscesses

Gingival abscesses are the third type of tooth infection, and they occur on the gums and are often caused by an infection in the gums. Gingival abscesses hurt badly, so you must see a dentist if you think you may have one.

Symptoms of a Tooth Infection

Dentists at Brooklyn Blvd Dental have observed that a tooth abscess can cause several noticeable symptoms, such as the ones mentioned here:

• Sharp and throbbing pain in the area around the tooth
• Pain that spreads to your jaw or other parts of your face on the affected side
• Swelling
• Gum redness
• Bad taste in your mouth
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

If you have a pimple-like bump on your gum that oozes pus when pressed, then there’s no doubt – you have an infection! If you have swelling in your face, a fever, or trouble breathing or swallowing, don’t delay getting the treatment you need!

What Causes a Tooth Infection?

Now that you are aware of infected tooth symptoms, let’s take a look at what causes an infection in the first place. Here are some common ones:

1. Tooth Decay: It is one of the most common causes of tooth infection. When bacteria break down sugars in food and drink, they create acid that attacks the enamel. This can lead to a cavity or tooth decay. If the decay is left untreated, it will eventually reach the tooth’s pulp, causing an infection.
2. Chipped or Cracked Tooth: Another common cause of a tooth infection is a broken, chipped, or cracked tooth. Bacteria can seep into any opening in the tooth and spread to the pulp. This is why it’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible.
3. Gum Disease: Gum disease is an inflammation of the tissues around the teeth, and the bacteria gain access to deeper tissues as gum disease progresses. If you have gum disease, you must seek treatment from a dentist or periodontist.
4. Tooth Injury: An injury to the tooth can cause a tooth infection. Even if there is no visible crack or trauma to a tooth can injure the inner pulp, making the tooth susceptible to infection.

Some risk factors include:

Certain habits and conditions can make you more likely to develop a tooth abscess. These include:

• Poor Oral Hygiene: Skipping regular brushing and flossing allows plaque and bacteria to build up, which can lead to tooth decay, gum infections, and eventually an abscess.
• High-Sugar Diet: Eating or drinking too many sugary foods and beverages, such as sweets and soft drinks, increases the risk of cavities that may later become infected.
• Dry Mouth: A lack of saliva makes it easier for bacteria to grow. This can happen due to aging or as a side effect of some medicines, increasing the risk of tooth decay and infection.

How a Dentist Diagnoses a Tooth Infection?

In addition to checking for tooth infection symptoms and reviewing your medical history, a dentist may perform a few diagnostic tests to confirm the presence and extent of the infection. These may include:

• Tapping on Your Teeth: To check for pain or sensitivity, which can help identify the affected tooth.
• Dental X-ray: To detect signs of infection, such as bone loss or abscess formation around the tooth root.
• CT Scan (Computerised Tomography): In severe or complex cases, a CT scan may be recommended to determine how far the infection has spread.

Treatment Options for a Tooth Infection

If you are experiencing tooth infection symptoms, don’t despair. Several treatment options are available to you, depending on the severity of your infection. The most common treatment options for tooth infection are:

• Draining the Abscess: Firstly, the dentist might make a small incision, allowing the abscess to drain out. Usually, after this, that area is washed with saline. This is often done as a first step in treating a tooth abscess, as it helps in reducing the swelling and pain associated with the infection.
• Performing a Root Canal: After drilling down into your tooth to remove the diseased pulp, your dentist will drain the abscess and fill and seal your tooth’s pulp chamber and root canals. The dentist will then cap it with a crown or another restoration. However, this procedure is often done when the infection has spread to the tooth’s innermost parts and is considered a more permanent solution.
• Prescribing Antibiotics: If your infection spreads to nearby areas in your mouth, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to stop it. This is usually done with other treatment options, such as performing a root canal.
• Tooth Extraction: If the tooth cannot be repaired, meaning the infection has caused too much damage, your dentist may recommend extracting the tooth. This is generally the last resort, as it will result in the loss of the affected tooth.

These are just a few of the most common treatment options for a tooth abscess. See a dentist as soon as possible if you are experiencing pain or other symptoms associated with an abscessed tooth. They will help to determine the best course of action for you and will provide relief from your pain.

How to Prevent a Tooth Infection?

Preventing tooth decay is the best way to avoid a tooth abscess. Good oral hygiene and regular dental care can go a long way in keeping your teeth healthy. Here are some effective tips from our experts at Brooklyn Blvd Dental:

• Brush properly and regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes using fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and bacteria.
• Clean between your teeth: Use dental floss or a water flosser daily to remove food particles and plaque that brushing alone can’t reach.
• Replace your toothbrush often: Change your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become worn out.
• Follow a balanced diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and choose nutritious foods that promote healthy teeth and gums.
• Visit your dentist regularly: Schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to detect and treat early signs of decay.
• Use mouthwash if advised: An antiseptic or fluoride mouth rinse can provide extra protection against bacteria and tooth decay.

The Bottom Line

A tooth infection can start as a mild toothache but may quickly turn into something more serious if left untreated. Recognizing early tooth infection symptoms and getting timely care can make all the difference in preventing complications. In most cases, timely treatment such as root canal therapy can save the affected tooth and prevent the infection from spreading.

If you’re experiencing persistent toothache, swelling, or sensitivity, reach out to Brooklyn Blvd Dental today. Our experienced dentists in Brooklyn Park can diagnose the cause, recommend the right treatment, and help relieve pain with gentle and professional care. So, contact us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.

Contact info: (763) 533-8669

Email: frontdesk1@brooklynblvddental.com

Location: 5831 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Center, MN 55429

FAQs

Can a tooth infection heal on its own?
No, a tooth infection usually cannot heal on its own. The infection comes from bacteria inside the tooth or gums. Without treatment, it can get worse and cause serious problems, including spreading to other parts of the body.

How to know if a tooth infection is spreading?
Signs that a tooth infection is spreading include swelling in the face, jaw, or neck, severe pain, fever, difficulty opening the mouth, or trouble swallowing. If these occur, you should see a dentist immediately.

Can antibiotics cure a tooth infection?
Antibiotics can help control the infection and reduce pain or swelling. However, they usually do not fix the underlying problem. Dental treatment, like a root canal or tooth extraction, is often needed to fully cure the infection.

How long does it take for a tooth infection to heal?
The healing time depends on the severity of the infection and the treatment. With proper dental care and antibiotics, mild infections may improve in a few days. Severe infections can take longer and need follow-up dental treatment.

Are there any home remedies for tooth infections?
Home remedies may ease pain temporarily but cannot cure the infection. Common options include warm saltwater rinses, cold compresses for swelling, and over-the-counter pain relievers. These help comfort you until you get professional treatment.