General Dentistry: Why You Should Visit a Dentist About a Tooth Infection

A tooth infection can be a painful experience but can be effectively managed, particularly if caught early. Regular dental check-ups, along with consultation with a dentist in the event of a suspected infection, help to ensure appropriate measures are taken while promoting consistent oral health. Failure to appropriately care for a tooth infection, on the other hand, can lead to more severe health consequences in the mouth, as well as other areas of the body.

What is a tooth infection?

A tooth infection, typically in the form of an abscess, is often a result of untreated tooth decay, but can also result from a chip or damage to a particular tooth. Generally, bacteria enter the damaged part of the tooth and infect the pulp. This can ultimately cause severe pain, intense oral sensitivity, and in advanced cases, more dire complications.

Why should you see a dentist?

A tooth infection can range from mild to severe but always requires treatment at a dental practice. Failure to effectively treat a tooth infection can even be life-threatening. There are a few reasons why visiting a dental professional is necessary for the event of a tooth infection.

Immediate treatment of the abscess

An infected tooth must be treated by a dentist to ensure it heals properly and does not spread to other parts of the body. Depending on the specifics of a given infection, a dentist may perform any of the following procedures:

• Draining and cleaning the abscess may be sufficient treatment in the case of some tooth infections.
• A root canal may be necessary to save the tooth. In this procedure, a dentist drills into the tooth to remove the diseased tissue. The interior of the tooth is then sealed, and the tooth may be capped.
• In some cases, the infected tooth may need to be pulled to effectively treat the infection.

Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help clear up any infection.

Promotion of strong oral hygiene habits

In addition to treating the immediate infection, a visit to a dental practice can help make it more likely you will not be faced with another tooth infection. Regular dental cleanings ensure plaque buildup in your mouth is kept minimal and your gums (another potential site of infection) stay healthy. Visiting the dentist helps promote effective regular oral hygiene habits, including good brushing, flossing, and regular rinsing. Your dentist can also advise you about which foods to avoid. Diets high in sugars and certain other substances can be more likely to lead to infections of the teeth.