Understanding Tooth Infections And When To See A Dentist
What are tooth infections and how do they develop?
A tooth infection usually develops from a cavity that starts as a small hole in the tooth. In that cavity, bacteria get in. If that cavity is not treated, it continues to work its way towards the center of the tooth where the nutrients and blood supply are in the nerve of that tooth. Once that happens, the bacteria migrate down that nerve-rich blood supply and go down to the bottom of the tooth, creating an infection in that tooth.
What are the most common symptoms of a tooth infection?
The most common symptoms of a tooth infection are usually aching, throbbing, prolonged cold sensitivity that does not go away, swelling, heat, tenderness in your face, swelling in the gums, and swelling that's visible on the external side of your face, such as your cheek. These are usually the most common symptoms of a tooth infection.
How can a dentist tell the difference between a tooth infection and a cavity?
The best way a dentist can do that is by looking at an X-ray. An X-ray, such as a bitewing X-ray or a periapical X-ray, is taken to look at the tooth in its entirety.
Generally, an infection would show an area of involvement where the cavity has gone into the nerve and there is an area below the tooth where the actual infection is. That's usually denoted by a dark area at the bottom of the root of the tooth. It's very easy to see the difference.
There are also other tests that can be done, such as cold testing of the tooth, where you apply a cold liquid on the tooth and see how the nerve of that tooth responds. Generally, on a healthy tooth, if you apply cold to it, as soon as you take away that cold sensation, it should be gone in about 3 to 4 seconds. Instances where that cold sensation lingers or is prolonged indicate there's usually nerve involvement. If there's no response, the tooth has died, which is a very good indicator that there's an infection present.
What are the risks if a tooth infection is left untreated?
If a tooth infection is not treated, pain, swelling, and throbbing could develop, and prolonged sensitivity could arise. These are your immediate risks.
For an infection that goes on longer, it will start to erode and break down some of the surrounding bone around that tooth. If left untreated for even longer, it can start to degrade the bone around other teeth, and you might have some looseness of the tooth that is infected. You may also have looseness in adjacent teeth because of the presence of the infection and the destruction of bone around the infected tooth.
In the most severe instances, a tooth infection could enter your bloodstream and travel to other parts of your body, such as your heart. There's a very low chance of that happening, but it is possible and very severe.
How do I know if a tooth infection is spreading to other parts of the body?
Generally, if a tooth infection is spreading to other parts of the body, you will feel it and see it. You'll notice swelling that is getting bigger. Instead of being swollen just in the gum around the infected tooth, you might see swelling around your face or neck. This would indicate that the swelling is moving from the tissues immediately around the tooth and expanding into other tissues and planes. This is generally accompanied by a feeling of illness, such as nausea or radiating pain. These are the best indicators that a swelling and infection have advanced beyond just that localized tooth.
Can a tooth infection really become life-threatening?
It's very uncommon for a tooth infection to become life-threatening, but there is a low risk. An infection can expand into other tissues, enter the bloodstream, and travel to other areas like the heart, causing a condition known as infective endocarditis. In rare cases, an infection can travel to the brain and cause issues. It's best to have any suspected infection evaluated and treated as soon as possible.
What treatment options are available in cases of a tooth infection?
Treatment options for a tooth infection begin with getting an X-ray to evaluate the tooth and determine if there is an infection. If an infection is present, the tooth must be assessed to see if it is restorable. Infections usually start from a cavity, trauma, or a broken tooth.
If the tooth is restorable, the infection is treated with a root canal, where the nerve, blood supply, and infected material are removed, filled, and sealed. If the tooth is not restorable or the infection is large, and the patient does not wish to undergo a root canal, the tooth is extracted.
Do I need an antibiotic prescribed if I have a tooth infection?
If you have a tooth infection, an antibiotic is generally prescribed. We review your medical history, medications, and allergies to determine the best antibiotic to reduce the infection and alleviate discomfort, allowing for the completion of treatment, whether it be a root canal or extraction.
Are there natural or home remedies to help prevent tooth infections, and are they safe?
The best natural home remedy for a tooth infection is prevention. This involves brushing and flossing your teeth daily, ideally two to three times a day, using over-the-counter mouth rinses, and having regular exams, cleanings, and X-rays. Prevention at home is the best way to eliminate an infection.
What are the most common signs of an infected wisdom tooth?
The most common sign of an infected wisdom tooth is swelling in the tissue around the tooth. Whether the wisdom tooth is fully erupted, partially erupted, or unerupted, an infection will generally cause swelling, pain, and a sense that something is not right. In partially erupted wisdom teeth, the gums may be red, tender, and possibly express pus when pressed, along with pain and a foul smell or taste.
How are infected wisdom teeth treated, and when is an extraction necessary?
For infected wisdom teeth, an X-ray is taken. If the whole tooth with roots can be captured with a periapical X-ray, it is used; otherwise, a panoramic X-ray is taken to determine the presence of infection. If an infection is found, an antibiotic is prescribed to reduce the infection until extraction is possible. If the extraction can be performed in our office, we handle it there.
However, if the orientation or location of the wisdom tooth prevents safe removal, or if the patient requires sedation beyond nitrous oxide or an oral sedative, a referral to an oral surgeon is made. The surgeon will conduct a consult and determine the necessary level of sedation for the extraction.
What should a patient do if they notice swelling or pain in their jaw?
If you have swelling or pain in your jaw, call your dentist to make an appointment for an evaluation. X-rays will be taken as needed based on the evaluation.
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 Troy, PA, call (570) 682-5050 or email [email protected] to learn more. Ready to get started? Schedule your appointment below.