How Do I Know If I Have a Tooth Abscess?
Because the teeth contain many nerves, a toothache can cause excruciating pain. In the beginning, patients may begin to notice jaw or gum swelling. There may also be a change in the tooth’s color. Patients who have a foul taste in their mouth or difficulty opening the mouth may have a severe tooth infection. Patients should contact their dentist right away when experiencing any pain or discomfort as there could be another oral health issue that needs to be treated.
When there is a pocket of pus in the mouth, it causes an abscess. It is possible for the pocket to be on the surface of the teeth and gums or under the surface. The infection is typically caused by a bacterial infection which requires prompt treatment from a dental professional. Tooth abscesses unfortunately do not go away on their own without intervention.
The failure to treat a tooth infection or abscess can result in the spread of infection to other areas of the body. In severe cases, this can result in life-threatening conditions. When the issue remains untreated, it can also lead to tooth loss.
Signs and symptoms which are commonly associated with an abscess or tooth infection are summarized below:
- Color change of the tooth
- Face, gum, or jaw swelling
- Fever
- Severe sensitivity to hot, cold, sugary, or acidic foods and drinks
- Swelling around the tooth that may resemble a pimple
- Bad breath or foul taste in the mouth
- Leaking sore or drainage
- Difficulty moving jaw, eating, or even opening the mouth
- Mouth pain which pulsates or throbs
- Pain that becomes worse when lying down
- Headache or earache
- Flu-like symptoms
- Fever
Common causes of a tooth infection include:
1. Decay or untreated cavities
2. Neglect or poor oral hygiene
3. Large consumption of sugary, acidic foods and drinks
4. Dental work which is broken or damaged
5. Compromised immune system
6. Trauma or accident
7. Smoking habits
8. Mouth which is chronically dry
9. Teeth that are cracked or chipped
10. Gum disease
Patients who suspect they may have a tooth infection should follow up with their dentist right away. There are treatments which can eliminate the infection.
It is possible for the symptoms to be sporadic or for the pain to subside. Unfortunately, this does not necessarily mean the infection is gone. The infection can actually kill the nerves, eliminating the pain sensation. The infection is still present, and patients are at risk for it spreading to other areas of the body. This can cause long-term damage and serious issues.
A root canal is one treatment that is commonly used to eliminate a tooth abscess. During a root canal, the dentist or endodontist removes the infected pulp and the infection is treated. The dental professional may also prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the infection. An antibiotic is often used before or after a root canal to prevent the spread of infection.
In some cases, the dentist may opt to drain the abscess. This process will involve making a small incision or cutting the tooth to allow for the pus and infection to run out. Unfortunately, sometimes the tooth is beyond repair and is destroyed by the infection. In this case, it likely needs to be removed. The dental professional will work to preserve the tooth and exhaust all treatment options. Once the infection is treated, there are various tooth-replacement treatments like dental implants which can be used. These treatments can help restore the appearance and function of the missing tooth.
A tooth infection or abscess will not be resolved without treatment. An untreated abscess can allow for infection to spread to other parts of the body and cause serious issues. Work with a dentist to determine the best treatment for an abscess.