An infected tooth is usually painful and can potentially lead to other issues in your mouth. A dentist at Rocky Ridge Dental can give you a routine examination, which may lead to the discovery of a problematic tooth. They also have ways to treat infected teeth, including root canals. To determine if you have an infected tooth, check for these signs:
Pain and Swelling When Chewing or Swallowing
One of the most common signs of an infected tooth is severe pain or swelling around the tooth. The pain may increase when chewing, and your jaw or cheek may be swollen if the infection spreads. If you experience these symptoms, the professionals at Rocky Ridge Dental can identify your infected tooth during an examination. They may recommend antibiotics, a root canal, or extraction if the pain and infection are severe enough.
Pain stemming from an infected tooth can worsen when eating, mainly if you bite your food with the infected tooth. It may also cause swelling in your throat, making it difficult and painful to swallow or even to breathe. If this is the case, schedule a dentist appointment to receive treatment as soon as possible. This will help prevent the infection from spreading and offer you relief from discomfort. Rocky Ridge Dental offers emergency dental services, so if your pain is exceptionally severe, preventing you from eating entirely or sleeping, our dentists can conduct an emergency procedure.
Increased Tooth Sensitivity
Tartar is a buildup of food and bacteria. If left on teeth for long periods, it causes enamel to break down, making teeth more sensitive to heat and cold. It may also damage the nerves and root of the tooth, causing an infection to spread. This may also contribute to pain and discomfort while eating or drinking. If your teeth become overly sensitive, it is time to visit a professional for a cleaning and exam.
Bad Breath or Taste From the Mouth
If you notice a foul odor or taste in your mouth, this may signal an infection. It could also be bacterial growth stemming from plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth and gums. This can grow and spread to different mouth areas, causing pain, swelling, and bad breath or taste. This is called periodontal disease, and a dentist can often treat it with a thorough cleaning or, in severe cases, root canals or tooth extraction.
Gum Swelling and Discharge
If your gums discharge pus or blood, you likely have an infection at the root of your tooth. Having an infection at a tooth root could lead to it spreading to the jaw bone or other teeth. If your gums are consistently bleeding, schedule a visit with Rocky Ridge Dental for a cleaning and examination.
Schedule a Visit With a Dentist Today
If you are experiencing pain, difficulty chewing and swallowing, bad breath, or a bad taste in your mouth, visit Rocky Ridge Dental. When the pain is severe, they offer emergency services to relieve your discomfort quickly. To prevent tooth infection, properly brush and floss your teeth and schedule professional teeth cleanings. Contact Rocky Ridge Dental today to receive a professional cleaning.
