What Are the Signs of A Tooth Infection?

Tooth infections, or dental abscesses, are pockets of infection that develop due to bacteria getting inside your tooth or gums. It’s typically caused by cavities, which can be a gateway for bacteria to enter your teeth and potentially infect the pulp.

Cracks or chips in your teeth can also let bacteria slip inside. Meanwhile, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) forms deeper pockets around the teeth, increasing your risk of infection.

People with a weaker immune system might be more susceptible to gum disease and infection. This is because their bodies find it more difficult to fight bacteria, especially if they’re already fighting off other diseases or infections.

What Are the Signs of A Tooth Infection?

Tooth infections won’t go away on their own. In fact, it can only get worse. The most common signs of a tooth infection include:

• Intense throbbing pain when biting or chewing
• Pain radiating to the ear, jaw, or neck
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
• Swelling of the face, neck, cheek, or gums near the infection
• Foul taste or odor 
• Abscess
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Loose teeth or tooth loss

Contact your dentist if you notice any signs of a tooth infection. Getting treated early can save your teeth and prevent serious health complications.

Treatment Options for Tooth Infections

Your treatment will depend on factors like the severity of the infection, the condition of the tooth, and your overall health. These can help determine whether or not you need antibiotics or surgery.

When it comes to treating a tooth infection, the goal is to get rid of the infection and save the tooth if possible. Here are some treatment options that your dentist might consider:

• Antibiotics ⁠— If the infection starts spreading or you have a weakened immune system, your dentist might recommend antibiotics. However, it won’t cure the infection.

• Root canal therapy — A root canal removes the infected pulp, disinfects and fills the canals before sealing the tooth. This can save a tooth instead of extracting it.
• Extraction — Extractions are typically used when the tooth is beyond repair. It can clear the infection and prevent it from spreading further

Managing Tooth Infection Symptoms at Home

Tooth infections can be uncomfortable if not painful, so it’s understandable if you want some relief. Here are some things you can do to relieve your symptoms at home:

• Saltwater rinses — Saltwater rinses can help reduce swelling, loosen debris, and remove bacteria. 
• Over-the-counter pain relievers — Medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin (only for adults) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Cold compress — Helps reduce pain and swelling. Try using one for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. 
• Clove oil — This natural remedy has some numbing properties. Apply some on a cotton ball directly to the sore area.
• Garlic — A crushed garlic clove placed on the tooth may offer temporary relief due to its antibacterial properties.

Types of Tooth Infections

There are different types of tooth infections, which we listed in a table below:

Serious Side Effects of a Tooth Infection

A tooth infection can lead to serious symptoms and health problems if left untreated. These include:

• Fever and swollen glands
• Tooth loss
• Blood infection (sepsis)
• Infection spreading to the jawbone or other parts of your head

Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening infection that spreads into your bloodstream, affecting other organs. Contact a dentist immediately if you’re experiencing sepsis or any of the other symptoms listed above. 

How is a Tooth Infection Diagnosed?

Dentists have various tools and techniques to diagnose a toothache or cavity before the tooth becomes infected. Here are some ways for dentists to diagnose a tooth infection:

• Close examination — Your dentist will ask about what’s hurting, when it started, and your symptoms. They’ll look for swelling, redness, or anything unusual.
• X-rays — Help the dentist see inside the tooth to spot hidden decay, abscesses, and changes in bone density around the tooth.
• Advanced imaging — CT or MRI scans can spot complicated infections. The former helps track the spread of infection, while the latter helps see into soft tissues.
• Laboratory testing — Your dentist might use special tests to see whether the pulp is still alive or died due to the infection.
• Biopsy — A biopsy might be necessary for serious or unusual infections.

A correct diagnosis is essential for dentists to give you the most effective treatment plan possible. They’ll get to the root of the problem to reduce the chance of the infection coming back.

How to Prevent A Tooth Infection

Maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent a tooth infection. You can do this by brushing twice daily for at least two minutes each time. Use gentle circular motions and focus on one mouth section at a time. 

Make sure to floss regularly to reach places your toothbrush can’t reach, and use an antiseptic or fluoride mouthwash for extra protection.

Here are other ways to prevent a tooth infection:

• Drink plenty of water to help increase saliva production, which naturally washes away food residue and protects your enamel.
• A healthy diet of calcium-rich foods and vegetables can help strengthen your teeth. You should also avoid eating too many sugary foods.
• Regular dental cleanings can help remove plaque and calculus you can’t get rid of at home.

Additionally, your dentist can also provide some helpful tips and products that can help improve your dental hygiene. It’s important to remember that home remedies aren’t a replacement for treatment.

It can help you manage the symptoms, but it won’t treat the infection itself. It is important to visit a dentist so that the root cause is identified and treated.