How Do I Know if My Tooth is Infected?

Tooth infections, also known as dental abscesses, can cause severe pain and lead to serious complications without immediate treatment. We educate our patients to recognize the signs of a tooth infection so they can seek timely treatment. Here are common indicators that your tooth may be infected:

• Severe Tooth Pain: A persistent pain that worsens with pressure or chewing is often a sign of infection.
• Swelling: Swelling of the gums, face, or lymph nodes near the affected tooth indicates an inflammatory response to infection.
• Sensitivity to Temperature: Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks can be a symptom of an infected tooth.
• Fever: In some cases, a fever may accompany a dental abscess, signaling a systemic response to infection.
• Bad Taste or Odor: A foul taste or odor in the mouth, especially near the affected tooth, suggests the presence of bacteria and pus.

What to Do if You See Signs of a Tooth Infection

• Contact our team immediately for an evaluation if you experience any symptoms of a tooth infection.
• Avoid Self-Treatment: Over-the-counter pain relievers may temporarily alleviate symptoms, but they won’t address the underlying infection.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene by brushing and flossing around the infected tooth
• Schedule routine visits, exams, and check-ups to allow your dentist to identify and address dental issues before they worsen into infections.
• Ignoring a tooth infection can lead to serious consequences, including tooth loss and systemic infection. If you suspect that you have a tooth infection, don’t hesitate to contact our team in Panorama City.

Schedule an appointment at Parthenia Family Dental for prompt evaluation and treatment.