The Most Common Signs of an Abscessed Tooth
October 1, 2024 9:00 am |Tooth pain can be more than just a temporary annoyance—it could be a sign of something serious, like an abscessed tooth. An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection that can develop in different areas of a tooth. It’s not only painful but can also lead to severe complications if left untreated. At Mauka Family Dental in Mililani, HI, we want to help you spot the signs of an abscessed tooth early, so you know when to take action and seek professional care.
1. Severe, Throbbing Tooth Pain
One of the most common signs of an abscessed tooth is a sharp, constant pain that doesn’t seem to go away. The pain can feel like it’s radiating to your jaw, neck, or even your ear on the same side as the affected tooth. This type of toothache is often described as deep and throbbing, making it hard to eat, sleep, or focus on anything else.
2. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Do you feel sharp pain or intense sensitivity when sipping your morning coffee or enjoying an ice cream cone? While some people naturally have sensitive teeth, new sensitivity that’s sudden or lingers long after eating could indicate that an infection is brewing inside the tooth.
3. Swelling in the Face or Jaw
An abscessed tooth can cause visible swelling in your face, cheek, or jaw area. This swelling occurs because the body is trying to fight the infection, causing inflammation. Sometimes, you might notice a small bump on your gum near the affected tooth. Known as a gum boil, this bump can resemble a tiny pimple and may feel tender to the touch. If it bursts, it might release a foul-tasting fluid, which is a strong indication of an abscess.
4. Bad Breath or a Foul Taste
Have you noticed a sour taste in your mouth or persistent bad breath that won’t go away, even after brushing? This could be a sign of an abscess leaking pus. The pus contains bacteria and decayed tissue, which can create an unpleasant odor and taste in your mouth.
5. Fever and General Discomfort
If your tooth pain is accompanied by a fever or you just feel generally unwell, it may be a sign that your body is responding to a more severe infection. This is something you shouldn’t ignore, as the infection can potentially spread to other parts of your body, making the situation much more serious.
How is an Abscess Treated?
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to see a dentist right away. Treating an abscessed tooth usually involves one of two solutions:
Root Canal Therapy: A root canal can save the tooth by removing the infected pulp from inside. During the procedure, your dentist will clean out the infection, disinfect the root canal, and seal the tooth to prevent further issues.
Tooth Extraction: If the infection is severe and the tooth cannot be saved, an extraction may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth or the jawbone. After extraction, options like implants or bridges can help restore the gap.
Don’t Ignore the Signs—Visit Mauka Family Dental in Mililani, HI
An abscessed tooth is a dental emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent the infection from worsening. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t brush them off as just a simple toothache. Contact Mauka Family Dental in Mililani, HI, as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Our experienced team will assess your situation, determine whether a root canal or extraction is necessary, and help relieve your pain so you can get back to feeling like yourself again!
Categorised in: Tooth Pain
