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Dental Infection Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Michael Wahl • Feb 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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