Tooth infections can be unbelievably painful and, if left untreated, can lead to serious health complications. Recognizing the signs of an infected tooth early and knowing how to manage it are crucial steps in maintaining your oral health. Our restoration dentist in Lombard, IL, is here to help.
A tooth infection can disrupt your daily life and take a major toll on your smile’s health. Luckily, there are preventive and restorative treatments to keep your smile in tip-top condition. Contact Dental Care of Lombard to see how we can safeguard your smile. Just dial our Lombard, IL, dental office at (630) 629-5700 for information, appointments, and more!
Knowing how to keep your smile healthy and when to show it some extra love is crucial to your overall well-being. So, in today’s post, Dr. Julie Glud and the Dental Care of Lombard team explore the symptoms of an infected tooth, effective treatments, and preventive measures to avoid such infections.
Signs of an Infected Tooth
When it comes to an infected tooth, there are six main signs you should look out for, including:
1. Persistent Toothache
One of the most noticeable and frequent signs of a tooth infection is a persistent, throbbing toothache.
This kind of pain can range from mild to severe and may worsen when lying down. It often radiates to the jaw, neck, or ear, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact source. Luckily, a quick trip to our Lombard dentist can help localize the issue.
2. Swelling and Redness
Swelling or puffiness around the affected tooth and the surrounding gums is a clear indication of infection. This swelling can extend to the face or neck in severe cases.
The gums may appear red and inflamed, and you might notice a pimple-like bump, which is an abscess, on the gums near the tooth. Never pop a bump on your gums! Instead, let a professional (like Dr. Glud) handle the situation to prevent the spread of bacteria and disease.
3. Sensitivity to Temperature
Infected teeth are usually highly sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, particularly in foods and refreshments. You might experience sharp, shooting pain when consuming something piping hot or icy cold, which indicates the nerves inside the tooth are affected.
4. Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
A tooth infection can produce pus, which leads to a terrible odor and a very unpleasant taste in your mouth. This taste and odor usually persist despite regular brushing and flossing.
5. Fever
In some cases, a dental infection can cause a fever as your body’s immune system tries to fight off the invading bacteria. If you experience a fever along with other symptoms, it’s a sign that the infection might be spreading and requires immediate attention. Call Dental Care of Lombard right away at (630) 629-5700.
6. Difficulty Chewing or Opening Mouth
Pain while chewing or difficulty opening your mouth wide can also indicate an infected chomper. This is due to the swelling and pain in the jaw muscles around the infected area.
What to Do About an Infected Tooth
A dental infection sounds pretty scary, but if you take prompt action, you’ll find that this problem can be taken care of easily. Here’s what our Lombard, IL, dentist recommends:
1. See a Dentist Immediately
If you suspect a dental infection, it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment by even a couple of weeks gives the infection time to spread to other parts of your body, including your jaw, neck, and even your brain. Yikes!
Dr. Glud can examine your tooth, take X-rays if necessary, and determine the best course of treatment to prevent the spread of infection and stop the pain.
2. Antibiotics
In some cases, Dr. Glud may prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection. While antibiotics can reduce the infection, they are not a substitute for dental treatment. Dr. Glud often uses antibiotics in conjunction with other treatments to prevent the spread of bacteria until the tooth can be properly treated.
3. Root Canal Treatment
Root canals have a bad rap, but they are one of the best ways to get rid of a deep dental infection. During this procedure, Dr. Glud removes the infected innards from the tooth, cleans the roots thoroughly, and then fills and seals the tooth.
4. Tooth Extraction
In severe cases where the tooth is too damaged to be saved, Dr. Glud might recommend extracting the tooth. This will prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth and parts of your mouth.
5. Pain Management
Pain relievers from your local drug store or grocery shop can help manage the pain until you receive professional treatment. However, these should not be used as a long-term solution.
Preventing Tooth Infections
Of course, it is always best to prevent problems rather than solve them when they arise. Here’s what Dr. Glud recommends to prevent an infected tooth:
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Proper hygiene is the most effective way to prevent tooth infections. This includes:
- Brushing: Gently remove germs and plaque from your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Ensure you use a soft-bristled brush to reach all surfaces of your teeth.
- Flossing: Floss before bed to remove infection-causing debris between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Mouthwash: Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce plaque and prevent infections.
2. Regular Dental Checkups
Visit our dentist in Lombard, IL, regularly for checkups and cleanings, usually every six months. Regular dental visits allow Dr. Glud to spot early signs of decay or infection and take preventive measures.
3. Healthy Diet
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is vital for oral health. Limit sweet and sour nibbles and sips, as these refreshments can contribute to tooth decay. Instead, opt for a bountiful diet dense in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
4. Protect Your Teeth
If you play sports or experience sleep bruxism (clenching your jaws at night), use a mouthguard. This can prevent injuries that could lead to tooth damage and subsequent infections.
5. Avoid Tobacco
Smoking and using other tobacco products can increase your risk of gum disease and tooth infections. Quitting tobacco (including vape pens!) will improve your overall health and reduce your risk of dental issues.
6. Stay Hydrated
Fresh water from the tap helps wash away bits of food and bacteria from your mouth. It also promotes saliva production, which naturally cleanses your mouth and protects your teeth from decay.
Infected tooth? Our Lombard, IL, dentist can help!
Recognizing the signs of an infected tooth and seeking prompt treatment are crucial steps in preventing severe complications. So, don’t give an infection time to wreak havoc – contact Dental Care of Lombard today! Reach Dr. Glud online here or at (630) 629-5700 for advice and scheduling.
