Dealing with an infected tooth is a pain. If you have an infected tooth, this means it may have a cavity or crack, and bacteria are present in the area. When not treated as soon as possible, the tooth can deteriorate further, resulting in further decay, breakage, abscess, or tooth loss. Eventually, the infection can spread into your gum and jawbone, causing complications. Thus, you should consider gentle family dentistry in Riverside before the problem gets worse.
Symptoms of an Infected Tooth
By being aware of the signs and symptoms of an infected tooth, you understand when to see a dentist. If you believe you have an infection, you must not wait. Otherwise, the infection can spread and result in more serious problems. Symptoms of an infected tooth include throbbing pain, facial swelling, pus around the affected area, discolored or dark tooth, sore neck or jaw, tooth sensitivity, and fever.
Is Extraction Possible with an Infected Tooth?
A tooth infection is serious, and treatment with antibiotics before other treatments can be done. If your tooth is seriously damaged, you can have a root canal procedure done to save the tooth. But if the tooth’s internal structure has been destroyed, tooth extraction may be the only option.
Dentists will always try to save an infected tooth and only remove it if necessary. The extraction process is straightforward, and once the site has healed, see your dentist and talk about tooth replacement options.
If your tooth infection is severe or you have extensive facial or mouth swelling, your dentist may not recommend an extraction right away. If there’s an abscess, they will drain and treat the area with antibiotics first, to alleviate the swelling and deal with the occurring infection. If the damage is quite extensive and your tooth is compromised, then your dentist may need to extract the tooth.
Seeing your dentist every six months for dental cleanings and examinations is important. This allows your dentist to identify any signs of infection before the condition has gotten worse. They can treat an infected area and save your tooth, preventing further damage.
You can prevent tooth decay and minimize your risk of infection when you practice good oral hygiene and take care of your teeth at home. Your dentist can manage your oral health, and if you have concerns or experience pain around a tooth, call your dentist as soon as possible. They can examine your mouth and give the right treatment as soon as the problem arises.
