Signs of a Tooth Infection: Everything You Need to Know

Do you feel a sudden sharp pain in your mouth? Or is one of your teeth sensitive when you chew or touch it? These could be signs of a tooth infection. Tooth infections can occur for a variety of reasons, and you should not ignore the symptoms. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs of a tooth infection and what you should do if you think you have one. We here at Mableton Family Dentistry, aim to provide you with useful information to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

Severe toothache

One of the most common symptoms of a tooth infection is a severe toothache. This may occur suddenly or develop over time. The pain may be constant, throbbing or intense, and may be felt deep in the bone or around the tooth. If you have a fever, it may also indicate an infection. If the discomfort lasts more than a day, you should make an appointment with a dentist to avoid complications.

Swollen gums

In some cases, the gums around the tooth may become swollen, red or tender when you touch them. This is a sign that your body is trying to fight an infection in the tooth. Pus can also accumulate around the gumline, causing painful and foul-smelling breath. If your gumline is swollen or inflamed, it may be an indication of gum disease, which could lead to more severe complications if left untreated.

Tooth Sensitivity

If you experience sudden sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, it may be a warning sign that you have a tooth infection. This is especially true when the sensitivity is focused on one particular area of the tooth. When the decay reaches the innermost layer of the tooth, the tooth’s nerves will likely become exposed through the tiny tubules inside the tooth, causing sensitivity.

Pain when eating

Another sign of a tooth infection is pain that increases when you eat or chew food, particularly when you apply pressure on the affected tooth. This pain arises when the bacteria in the infected pulp multiply and spread to the root canals. The bacteria can also spread to the surrounding bone, causing pain and swelling.

Discolored tooth

Lastly, if you have a tooth that has a strange color or appears to be dark or grayish, it may be a sign that you have an infected tooth. This occurs when the bacteria present in the damaged pulp travel through the walls of the tooth and infect the surrounding hard tissues. If you notice an abrupt change in color or hue of the tooth, see a dentist immediately.

In conclusion, a tooth infection is not something you should ignore, and early diagnosis is crucial. If you notice any of the above signs, make an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible. At our dental clinic in Mableton, Georgia, we provide comprehensive dental care for our patients, including emergency appointments for urgent cases. Contact us today if you suspect that you have an oral infection, our professional team will diagnose the problem, provide appropriate treatment and relieve your discomfort. We hope this blog post has provided you with insightful information about tooth infections and motivated you to prioritize regular dental checkups. We look forward to seeing you smile!