Extreme tooth pain often leads to an appointment with a general dentist for an exam of the mouth to reveal the source of the problem. If a tooth infection is discovered, it is important to follow the advice of the dentist, as these do not go away on their own. A dentist may address the infection through medications or a procedure that targets the tooth directly.
A tooth is very much alive, with the inside containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. If a tooth is damaged, whether from being cracked or chipped or containing a cavity, bacteria can enter and take up residence in the dental pulp. When this occurs, an infection can set in and spread throughout the interior of the tooth and down to the root. Inflammation and swelling occur at the tip of the root, though symptomatic pain may spread through the tooth and jaw. The buildup of pus around the root leads to a condition of an abscessed tooth.
Several things can increase the risk of developing an abscess. A diet filled with foods and drinks rich in sugar can lead to an increased risk of dental cavities, which in turn allow entry for bacteria. Insufficient and improper dental hygiene increases the potential for gum disease, tooth decay, and other mouth or dental complications.
Many patients experience severe, throbbing pain in the infected tooth, with the pain often radiating out into the jawbone, neck, and ears. Even when pain is not present, a patient may experience sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures with foods and liquids and sensitivity when chewing or biting. The infection may bring on fever and cause swelling in the lymph nodes in the neck or under the jaw. The patient’s face or cheek may swell on the side of the infection.
A dentist recommends treatment for an infected tooth based on how serious the abscess may be. Dentists typically not only clear the infection but also advise their patients on how to prevent a recurring issue. To clear an infection, a patient may be prescribed an oral antibiotic to address the bacteria and prevent it from spreading. For a simple abscess, a patient may undergo a root canal in an effort to both get rid of the infection and preserve the tooth. A more serious abscess may require the tooth to be drained before a root canal is performed. In extreme cases, a general dentist may recommend that the tooth be extracted.
Proper dental hygiene reduces the risk of developing an infection. Brush and floss twice a day, thoroughly cleaning all surfaces of the teeth and in between. Limit sugary items in the diet and consider using a mouthwash or rinse to control the growth of bacteria and prevent tooth decay.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
General Dentist Treats Tooth Infections in McAllen, TX
A tooth infection is a painful condition that must be treated by a dentist. Schedule regular dental exams to look for signs of potential trouble.
Request an appointment or call Luna Dental at 956-243-8765 for an appointment in our McAllen office.
Visiting a general dentist regularly can have a tremendous impact on the health and appearance of teeth. While carving out time in a schedule every six months for a dentist appointment can seem inconvenient, there are several reasons to set aside an hour or two twice a year for these visits.Dental professionals use specialized tools…
If a general dentist recommends a dental crown, there are a variety of reasons why. Crowns can be used for cosmetic corrections as well as for protection and support. These dental restorations may seem intimidating to those who have never had one, but they do not have to be. Here are some questions to ask…
Good oral care is critical for overall well-being, and adults who routinely visit a general dentist are less likely to have problems with their teeth and health. Visiting a dentist twice per year can help detect and remediate the following conditions: CavitiesGum diseaseOral cancerTooth misalignmentSystemic diseaseMany people put off visiting a dentist due to fear…