Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about having a bright smile. Sometimes, what’s happening inside your mouth can affect your overall health. An abscessed tooth is a major dental issue that often flies under the radar until it gets serious. 5 signs you might have an abscessed tooth are:
- Severe, persistent pain
- Swelling and redness of the gums
- Bad taste or odour
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Fever or feeling rundown
Recognizing the early signs can save you a lot of pain and trouble. But it’s important to note that these signs don’t automatically mean an abscessed tooth. They could indicate other problems like cavities or tooth decay. Discuss your symptoms with your dentist during a dental exam for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
What Is an Abscessed Tooth?
An abscessed tooth is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can occur at different parts of the tooth for various reasons. The most common types are periapical abscesses, which develop at the tip of the root, and periodontal abscesses, which occur in the gums next to a tooth root. The infection can be due to untreated cavities, gum disease, or even a cracked tooth that allows bacteria to enter.
Risks of Ignoring an Abscessed Tooth
When left untreated, an abscessed tooth can lead to severe complications. The infection can spread to other parts of your body, including your jaw, neck, and brain. This can result in life-threatening conditions such as sepsis, a widespread infection that can cause organ failure.
An abscessed tooth can also cause Ludwig’s Angina, a rare skin infection that occurs on the floor of the mouth, under the tongue. This infection can block the airways, making it difficult to breathe.
5 Potential Signs of an Abscessed Tooth
Any of these 5 signs could indicate an abscessed tooth, especially when combined with other symptoms.
Severe, Persistent Pain
One of the most telling signs of an abscessed tooth is severe pain that doesn’t go away. The pain can be throbbing, sharp, spontaneous or constant. You might feel it radiate to your jawbone, neck, head or ear. This isn’t your typical toothache that comes and goes. Pain from an abscessed tooth is usually relentless.
Swelling & Redness
Another common sign is swelling in your face, jaw, or cheeks. The gum around the affected tooth may also become swollen and red. The buildup of pus causes swelling in the gums and is often accompanied by tenderness and warmth.
Bad Taste or Odour
An abscessed tooth can cause a foul taste in your mouth or bad breath that doesn’t go away, even after brushing. Because the abscess is filled with pus, the liquid can seep into your mouth if it ruptures.
Sensitivity to Hot & Cold
If your tooth suddenly becomes sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, it could be a sign of an abscess. This sensitivity is usually more intense and prolonged than the typical twinge you might feel on occasion.
Fever & Feeling Rundown
An abscessed tooth can sometimes lead to a fever and a general feeling of being unwell. You might feel fatigued, have swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck, and even experience difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Think about the last time you had the flu—feeling run down, tired, and achy. Similar symptoms accompanying a toothache could indicate that the infection is spreading and affecting your body more broadly.
Diagnosis & Treatment of Abscessed Tooth
Visiting your dentist as soon as you suspect an abscessed tooth is crucial, helping prevent further complications. The dentist can perform a thorough examination, which might include:
- Physical examination: Checking for swelling, redness, and tenderness.
- X-rays: To identify the presence and extent of the abscess.
- Pulp vitality test: To determine if the tooth’s pulp is still alive.
Treatment Options
An abscessed tooth requires prompt treatment. Depending on your situation, you and your dentist can determine which course of treatment is right for you. Your dentist may recommend:
- Drainage: The dentist will drain the infection to remove the pus.
- Root canal: The dentist will remove the infected pulp and seal the tooth.
- Antibiotics: The dentist will give you antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection.
- Extraction: The dentist may have to remove the infected tooth In severe cases.
Home Care Recommendations
An abscessed tooth needs professional treatment as soon as possible, but you can manage symptoms at home until your dental appointment:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce pain and swelling.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks that could exacerbate the pain.
- Apply ice to the area to help numb the pain
Preventing Future Abscesses
Preventive measures promote your overall health and reduce the need for emergency procedures. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and free from harmful bacteria.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Seeing your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings can catch potential issues before they become serious. A professional cleaning can remove tartar and plaque that brushing and flossing miss. Thorough exams also detect cavities and can treat tooth decay before they leave lasting damage.
Be Mindful of Dental Issues
Seek treatment immediately if you notice any signs of tooth decay or gum disease. Addressing minor problems can prevent them from escalating into more serious conditions like an abscess.
Don’t Wait to Talk to Your Dentist
Recognizing the early signs of an abscessed tooth can make a big difference in your overall health. Prompt treatment can prevent severe complications and get you back to enjoying life pain-free.
Don’t wait if you think you have an abscessed tooth. Prioritize your dental health and call our team at Genesis Dental today. We can schedule you for a dental exam with one of our experienced dentists to determine if any treatment is necessary and offer tailored advice.
