About Infected Teeth

An infected tooth, or abscess, is a result of a bacterial infection that occurs in the root area of the tooth. Pus can form inside the tissue surrounding the infected tooth, causing extreme pressure that results in a throbbing pain that can become intolerable if left untreated.

Identification

• Aside from the pain that is associated with infected teeth, a fever may occur which can range from low grade to dangerously high if the infection begins to spread throughout the body. Facial swelling can also occur in the area surrounding the mouth and jaw, sometimes spreading into the neck when the lymph nodes become involved. Tenderness of the jaw and gums is also a symptom, later causing the gum area to become inflamed and red. An overall sensitivity to hot and cold foods may also occur, further complicated by sharp and stabbing pain that may become unbearable. The stress of such an infection can lead to headaches as well, rendering the individual temporarily incapacitated in the worst case scenario.

Types

• The severity of the situation depends on the type of infection that has infected the surrounding tissue of the teeth. Bacteria that has entered the root due to tooth decay, can affect the tender pulp area at the top of the root, closest to the tooth. Once the bacteria have entered, the root will begin to become inflamed eventually, filling with a thick liquid that has no way to escape without dental treatment. On the other hand, an infection that has been brought on by a failed foot canal can cause extreme complications. This type of infection penetrates the bone of the jaw, which requires an irrigation treatment to correct the problem.

Time Frame

• It is imperative that dental treatment be sought as soon as possible when an oral infection is suspected. An infection that progresses can potentially heighten the risk of life threatening situations. Cellulitis can result from an infection of the teeth that is left to further manifest, consequently affecting the organs of the body, including the heart. Quick treatment can also reduce the chances of dangerous infections from entering the blood stream. In most cases a dentist will perform an oral surgery procedure that releases the fluid and drains the infection. Also known as an irrigation, this procedure can correct the damage that has been caused by the infection, but the results will depend on how far the infection has progressed.

Prevention/Solution

• Proper care of the teeth, which includes regular dental cleanings twice a year, can eliminate the possibility of infections. Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste in the morning, after every meal and in the evening before bed, is just as important. Flossing after brushing can help to remove food particles that have found their way in between the teeth, which can cause rotting and decay. Swishing with a mouthwash that has been approved by the American Dental Association, can reduce plaque, can freshen your breathe and the tooth decay that is a leading cause of infections concerning the teeth. Making a conscience decision to avoid as much sugar as possible in your daily diet can also be a positive factor in the prevention of oral diseases which lead to infection.

Misconceptions

• Common misconceptions surround the care of teeth that can greatly detract from the effectiveness of proactive oral maintenance. And one of these misconceptions is that the teeth are separate and do not have an effect on the rest of the body. However, it is important to understand that every part of your body has a purpose and acts as a complete system, working simultaneously together to create a harmonious balance. Infected teeth, and diseased gums, greatly affect the health of your body actively contributing to strokes and heart attacks. Also, the presence of oral odors does not directly signify the presence of a tooth infection. Many factors can contribute to this problem, but for confirmation that all is well with your oral health, a dentist should be consulted.