Tooth Infection Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Tooth infection is a condition where there is a cavity filled with pus that forms on the tooth as a result of a bacterial infection. This tooth infection disorder is also called a tooth abscess.
Tooth abscesses can happen to anyone, from children to adults. An abscessed tooth can trigger severe pain to the ear and head. If you don’t get proper treatment, a tooth abscess can become a more serious condition that can even be life-threatening.
There are three types of abscesses, namely:
- Gingival abscess, or abscess of the gums
- Periodontal abscess, which is an abscess that occurs in the bone supporting the teeth
- Periapical abscess, which is an abscess that is around the tip of the tooth root
Symptom
The main symptom of a tooth abscess or tooth infection is a throbbing, severe pain near the tooth or gum. Sometimes the pain can appear suddenly and can get worse over time.
Other symptoms that can appear include:
- Pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck.
- Pain that occurs when biting or chewing.
- Gums that are red and look swollen.
- Swollen-looking face.
- Teeth that feel sore or sensitive when exposed to hot or cold food or drinks.
- Discolored teeth.
- There is bad breath.
- Lymph nodes can feel swollen under the jaw or neck.
- Fever
- Abscesses can cause pimple-like bumps filled with pus.
- Hard to open mouth
Reason
The cause of infection in the teeth can start from cavities or damaged teeth but not getting any treatment at all. As a result, bacteria can enter into the pulp cavity, where the nerves and blood vessels are located.
Diagnosis
Dental infections can be diagnosed after the doctor conducts a clinical examination of the condition of the teeth and conducts medical questions and answers about dental problems to the patient. X-ray examination is also sometimes needed to find out the situation around the teeth and tooth roots.
Treatment
To treat tooth infection, depending on the severity that occurs, there are several things that are usually done, such as:
- Drainage, which is making a small line on the abscess to drain the pus and then cleaning it with a saline solution.
- Root canal treatment, by drilling into the tooth, to remove infected tissues in the pulp chamber. Furthermore, the pulp chamber will be filled with some kind of drug. The tooth is then covered with a permanent filling or artificial crown.
- Tooth extraction. If the tooth is badly damaged and cannot be treated anymore, the only way is for the tooth to be extracted so that the infection does not spread to other parts of the body.
- Antibiotics can be given if the abscess has spread to other parts of the body to clear the infection.
Prevention
To prevent tooth decay or tooth infection, you are advised to maintain healthy teeth and mouth. Try to do the following steps:
- Brush your teeth 2 times a day for 2 minutes, in the morning and at night before going to bed.
- Use toothpaste that contains fluoride.
- Always clean between your teeth using dental floss or dental floss at least once a day.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or if the bristles are damaged.
- Reduce consumption of foods or drinks that contain excessive sugar.
- Make regular visits to the dentist at least once every 6 months.