How to Deal with Tooth Infection: Emergency Dentist Advice

Learning techniques to deal with tooth infection plays an important role in starting the healing process. Tooth infection is a common dental emergency problem, happening due to several reasons such as severe decay, tooth fracture, and periodontal disease. If you are in this situation and your tooth is infected, or at least you think it might be infected, this blog is yours! You might need some tips to manage this emergency situation better before seeing your dentist.

Are you ready to learn? Let’s go!

Taking a Closer Look at the Symptoms of a Tooth Infection

Tooth infection is usually accompanied by several signs and symptoms. So, being informed about these symptoms is necessary and helps you handle this situation better and more effectively. We have mentioned the signs and symptoms of tooth infection here, let’s check them out: 

• Severe and persistent toothache: People with tooth infections usually experience severe and persistent pain. It is the most common sign of tooth infection. The tooth pain may worsen when chewing or biting.
• Increased tooth sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is another sign of infection, especially when you eat or drink hot or cold foods and beverages. 
• Increased body temperature: If you are struggling with a tooth infection, it is possible to experience a fever. Your body increases its temperature to fight the infection and prevent its progress. 
• Swelling: Inflammation and swelling in the gums, jaw, or face can happen while you have an infected tooth. 
• Unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth: Bad breath and unpleasant taste in the mouth are also the symptoms of tooth infection. This occurs because of bacteria accumulation in the mouth. 

What to Do If You Notice the Symptoms of Infection

You probably feel worried if you have noticed signs of a tooth infection. But you should know that the key to effective treatment is staying calm and taking timely action. In this part, we want to review the simple steps you should take to prevent the situation from worsening and restore the health of your smile.

1. Call your dentist: Experiencing swelling, severe toothache, or tooth sensitivity? It is the time to contact your dentist and explain your symptoms. They can thoroughly assess your oral conditions and provide you with the required treatment.
2. Use over-the-counter medicines: If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain or swelling, you can use painkillers to reduce the pain or apply a cold compress on your cheek for 15 minutes to minimize the inflammation and swelling.
3. Avoid chewing with an infected tooth: Chewing pressures can cause more pain and damage to the infected area. It is recommended to consume soft foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, or yogurt.
4. Rinse your mouth with salt water: Warm salt water is effective in keeping your mouth clean and reducing the risk of bacteria accumulation.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care for a Tooth Infection

It is necessary to contact an emergency dentist if you have noticed one or multiple symptoms of tooth infection. Prompt action is essential for experiencing an effective treatment. The dentist can offer the best treatment methods based on your needs and the severity of the issue, designing a proper treatment plan to restore the function and aesthetics of your smile.

How to Temporarily Deal with Tooth Infection By Home Remedies and Over-the-counter Solutions

The symptoms of the tooth infection are manageable until you see your dentist. For instance, you can rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep your mouth fresh and clean and reduce the risk of bacteria growth. Pain relievers such as Ibuprofen are also recommended if you feel severe tooth pain, but you need to be careful to use them in the appropriate dosage. Applying clove oil on the infected area is also helpful because of its antibacterial properties. Remember that home remedies and over-the-counter solutions are useful, but they can’t replace professional treatment.

The Consequences of Untreated Tooth Infections

Leaving the tooth infection untreated can endanger your oral health and overall wellness. The infection can quickly spread to the surrounding areas and affect your other teeth, gums, and even other organs of your body. Moreover, the risk of tooth loss will be increased. Abscess formation, sinus infection, and more serious and systematic health issues are the other consequences of an untreated tooth infection.

What You Are Going to Experience During An Emergency Dental Visit

An emergency dental appointment usually starts with an initial assessment. Your dentist examines the infected area and determines the severity of the issue. X-rays are also required for better examination. If you are in pain, they give you some painkiller pills or numb the affected area to help you stay calm and pain-free. The next step is designing a treatment plan to address the infection effectively. Your dentist may drain the abscess, apply a dental filling, or perform other methods, like root canal therapy to control the infection. You will also receive some tips based on your conditions- to maintain your oral health and prevent further complications.

Bottom Line

Dealing with a tooth infection can be a stressful experience, but recognizing the symptoms and taking immediate action are essential steps to protect your oral health. While home remedies may provide temporary relief, untreated infections can lead to serious complications. Seeking emergency dental care ensures you receive proper treatment and avoid further risks. 

Suffering from a tooth infection? Don’t postpone your treatment anymore! We are here to relieve your pain and restore the functions and aesthetics of your smile. Our skilled dentist and caring staff at Eagle Family Dentistry have years of experience and expertise in handling dental issues such as infection. Book a dental visit with us today! We are eagerly awaiting you!

Faqs

1. What are the warning signs of a tooth infection?

Common signs include severe toothache, swelling in the gums or face, sensitivity to hot or cold, fever, bad breath, and pus around the affected tooth.

2. How can I manage pain from a tooth infection before seeing a dentist?

You can use over-the-counter pain relievers, rinse with warm salt water, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort temporarily.

3. Is a tooth infection an emergency, and when should I go to the dentist?

Yes, a tooth infection can be an emergency. Visit a dentist immediately if you experience severe pain, swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.