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Dental Infection Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Michael Wahl • February 26, 2019

We love to hear that our patients love visiting the dentist! But, we know that’s not a common feeling towards dental visits. In fact, some people dislike visiting the dentist so much they put off a visit, even if they have symptoms of trouble. Let’s go over some dental infection symptoms you should never ignore. The sooner you get into to see us, the better we can care for you. It’s also more likely we can preserve your natural tooth.

Dental Infection Symptoms

Many dental infection symptoms are pretty obvious. You will likely notice pain or a toothache. Sometimes this is in response to pressure, hot or cold temperatures, or a constant throbbing. If the infection is deep, or has been persistent for a long time you may notice pain or swelling  in your face and cheek, extending into your neck. As with all infections, your body may also develop a fever to fight it off. Additionally, you may experience a sudden release of pressure accompanied by a rush of foul-smelling, bad-tasting fluid. This is the rush of fluid flowing out of the tooth abscess.

Risk Factors for Infection

Some people are more likely to develop infection than others. Genetics play a role in the strength of your enamel, which directly affects the likelihood of an abscess. However, we are not just victims of the hand dealt to us. Proper, regular oral hygiene is essential to reduce your risk of an abscess. Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, and rinsing with a fluoride rinse at least once a day can strengthen your enamel and keep harmful bacteria away. Additionally, you should see your dental hygienist regularly to clean off plaque and tartar that can build up over time.

Eating a diet high in sugar is another risk factor for dental infections. The more sugar that sits on your teeth, the weaker they become. Additionally, sugar feeds harmful bacteria that cause infections.

Complications

Dental Infection will not go away on their own with time. You need to be seen and treated by a dentist if you have dental infection symptoms.  Sometimes the pain will eventually go away, but you still need to have a dentist evaluate the infection. An untreated infection may spread to other parts of your body and can lead to serious complications such as sepsis.

Treatments

Your dentist will be able to tell you the best treatment for your particular situation. However, common treatments for infections include fillings, root canals, and crowns. Whichever treatment is required, your dentist will have to clean out the infection before the tooth can be restored. Sometimes, antibiotics will be prescribed to help reduce the spread of infection.

 

If you have symptoms of an infection, please call our office at719-633-8766 for an appointment right away! We want to help you get out of pain and care for your overall health.

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By Michael Wahl • September 1, 2020
Your teeth are not a tool. Ok, you might argue that your teeth ARE a tool for helping break down your food, clearly articulate words, and supporting your facial bone structure. And, you’d be right on those counts. What we mean here is a more basic idea of tool- an inanimate item which helps you… Continue Reading 6 Dumb Ways to Lose Your Teeth The post 6 Dumb Ways to Lose Your Teeth appeared first on West One Family Dental.

Is Nano Hydroxyapatite a Safe, Effective, Fluoride Alternative?

By Michael Wahl • August 25, 2020
If you listen to an oral care specialist for a hot minute, you’re likely to hear all about fluoride. Fluoride is the go-to preventative tool recommended by Amercian Dental Association. And with good reason! The introduction of fluoride has revolutionized oral health. However, it does have some downsides. Too much fluoride can lead to fluorosis,… Continue Reading Is Nano Hydroxyapatite a Safe, Effective, Fluoride Alternative? The post Is Nano Hydroxyapatite a Safe, Effective, Fluoride Alternative? appeared first on West One Family Dental.

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By Michael Wahl • August 18, 2020
When you think of all the negative impacts of poor oral health, it can be easy to get aggressive with your brushing. Plaque build-up become tartar and can cause gum disease. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and increases your risk of other more serious health problems. Plaque & tartar cause bad breath, dental… Continue Reading Are you Brushing Too Hard? The post Are you Brushing Too Hard? appeared first on West One Family Dental.

Mental Health & Oral Health: How They Impact One Another

By Michael Wahl • August 11, 2020
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By Michael Wahl • July 28, 2020
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By Michael Wahl • July 21, 2020
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Is Black Mold the Real Cause of Your Tooth Decay?

By Michael Wahl • July 14, 2020
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Extractions, Part 2: Caring for the Extraction Site

By Michael Wahl • July 7, 2020
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By Michael Wahl • July 1, 2020
Teeth are an incredible asset. While we may be biased as dental professionals, take a minute to consider the usefulness of having your teeth! (Or, check out our blog here about the hazards of going without teeth!) However, there are times when the best decision for your health is to extract a tooth. Let’s take… Continue Reading What You Should Know About Tooth Extractions Part 1 The post What You Should Know About Tooth Extractions Part 1 appeared first on West One Family Dental.

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By Michael Wahl • June 23, 2020
In many of our discussions of oral health we emphasize the importance of brushing and flossing all sides of your teeth. But what if you begin to notice that your tongue is looking different? Did you know that brushing your teeth should include a semi-regular brushing of your tongue as well? Your tongue can become… Continue Reading Common Tongue Issues and What They Mean The post Common Tongue Issues and What They Mean appeared first on West One Family Dental.
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