Tooth Infection: How To Tell If You Have One Before It’s Too Late
Tooth infections can potentially be life-threatening if left untreated, so it’s important to know how to identify whether or not you have one and take the necessary steps to treat it. Learn in this article how you can tell How Long Until A Tooth Infection Kills You?, as well as understanding how long until your tooth infection kills you.
What is a Tooth Infection and What Causes it?
A tooth infection, also called dental caries or cavities, is a condition in which the tooth decays and the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected. The bacteria that cause the infection can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious health problems.
Tooth decay is caused by a combination of factors, including poor oral hygiene, eating sugary foods, and drinking acidic beverages. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that eat away at the enamel on your teeth, creating tiny holes or cavities. When these cavities are not cleaned and filled, the bacteria can reach the pulp of the tooth and cause an infection.
Signs and Symptoms of a Tooth Infection
There are a few key signs and symptoms that may indicate you have a tooth infection. If you experience any of the following issues, it’s important to see a dentist right away as you may need antibiotics or other treatment:
- Severe toothache that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain medication
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling in the gum tissue around the affected tooth
- Redness or pus in the gums around the affected tooth
- A fever
- swollen lymph nodes
When Should You See a Doctor for a Tooth Infection?
When you have a tooth infection, you may experience pain, swelling, and fever. You may also notice that your gums are red and inflamed. If the infection is left untreated, it can spread to other parts of your body and become life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible if you think you may have a tooth infection.
How is a Tooth Infection Diagnosed?
A tooth infection can be very serious and lead to a number of health problems if it is not treated promptly. If you think you may have a tooth infection, it is important to see your dentist right away so that they can properly diagnose and treat the problem.
There are a few ways that your dentist can determine if you have a tooth infection. First, they will take a thorough medical history and ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing. They will then do a physical examination of your mouth, teeth, and gums.
Dental x-rays may also be taken in order to get a closer look at the affected tooth or teeth. In some cases, your dentist may also recommend an oral culture test in order to confirm the presence of bacteria that could be causing the infection.
If you are diagnosed with a tooth infection, your dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection. They may also recommend other treatments such as root canal therapy or extraction of the affected tooth.
Treatment Options for Tooth Infections
If you think you might have a tooth infection, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. If the infection is left untreated, it can spread to other parts of your body and become life-threatening.
There are two main treatment options for tooth infections: root canal therapy and extraction. Root canal therapy is the preferred option if the tooth can be saved. The procedure involves removing the infected pulp from the inside of the tooth and then sealing it off to prevent further infection. Extraction is typically only considered if the infection is too advanced and the tooth cannot be saved.
If you’re facing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to call our office. We’ll do everything we can to get you in for an appointment as soon as possible.
Prevention Strategies for Avoiding Tooth Infections
There are a few things you can do to help avoid getting a tooth infection in the first place. First, practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day. This will help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Second, see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This will allow your dentist to spot any problems early and treat them before they turn into an infection. Third, eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary drinks. Sugar feeds bacteria and can cause tooth decay, which can lead to an infection. Finally, don’t smoke. Smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder for your body to fight off infections. If you do get a tooth infection, see your dentist right away so it can be treated before it spreads to other parts of your body.
Conclusion
As much as the thought of dealing with a tooth infection can be worrisome, it’s important to recognize and act on any warning signs early. Our advice is to contact your dentist if you think something doesn’t seem right, because they will be able to help diagnose the situation and provide treatment options. By attending regular check-ups, brushing twice daily and flossing once or twice every day, you should be able to remain free from any form of tooth infections in no time at all.
