The Symptoms & Treatment For Tooth Infections

Are you suddenly experiencing significant pain with one of your teeth? Have you noticed that you cannot handle anything cold or hot with wincing? If so, you may have an infection in the root. When this happens, it’s essential to seek medical help as soon as possible to avoid complications. The following are three things to know and do.

Assess Your Symptoms

If you crack a tooth or lose a filling, your enamel is exposed. This situation becomes problematic when food particles get embedded deep in the hole or crack, allowing bacteria to settle into the root. An infection may occur. Some people notice the crack immediately. Others may not be aware of the condition, though, and could continue until pain sets in.

If you notice a sharp pain with a tooth, extreme sensitivity to food and beverage temperatures and develop a fever, contact emergency dentistry Windsor Terrace as soon as possible.

Get An Exam

A dentist will ask you questions and examine your mouth, looking for physical signs of deterioration or swelling. In addition, x-ray images are likely to be taken, indicating if an infection has set in and how bad it has become. If pus has started to develop or the dentist suspects contamination, a prescription antibiotic may be given.

Often, the infection may have to die down before emergency procedures may occur.

Undergo Dental Surgery

A root canal is often performed to alleviate future pain. The dentist may recommend you see an endodontist who specializes in the procedure. At this office, you are likely to be numbed. If you have anxiety, you may wish to ask for additional pain medicine.

The endodontist drills into the tooth, eliminating the root. This attempt usually prevents future problems. Expect to revisit your dentist to have a crown put on top of the tooth. This seals it off.

Rest & Take It Easy

While you heal, your dentist is likely to recommend a diet based on liquids and soft foods. Your teeth may require time to heal, and the enamel is vulnerable until the crown is on.

Some people bounce back quickly. Others may have some discomfort for a few days post-surgery. Speak with your dentist if you feel like the swelling isn’t going down. Medicines could help reduce pain and make you feel more comfortable.

Don’t sit around and wait if you are in pain. Call your dentist, and ask to be seen. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you may be on the mend.