How do I know if I have an abscessed tooth?
What is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is a serious and common dental issue that requires immediate attention. It refers to a swollen pocket of bacteria and fluid that forms within the tissues of your tooth or gums. There are several types of dental abscesses, including periapical, periodontal, and gingival abscesses, with periapical abscesses being the most common.
At Avalon Dental Center, our dentists in Cambridge, MA stress the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent an abscess from escalating into a life-threatening infection. If left untreated, a dental abscess can lead to severe complications.
Signs You May Have an Abscessed Tooth
Many patients are unaware they have an abscess, which can delay necessary treatment and allow the infection to spread. To help you identify the warning signs, our Cambridge dentists highlight some common symptoms of an abscessed tooth:
1. Radiating Pain
Abscess-related pain often radiates beyond the tooth itself, affecting the surrounding areas. You may feel discomfort in your jaw, ear, or along the affected side of your face. If you experience persistent pain in these areas without an obvious cause, it could be due to an abscessed tooth. A dental exam at our Cambridge or Somerville office can confirm the diagnosis.
2. Pain When Biting or Chewing
If you experience pain while biting or chewing, it could be a sign of an abscess. Inflammation around the affected tooth often makes everyday actions like eating or speaking uncomfortable. The pain may come and go or intensify with pressure on the tooth.
3. Red, Swollen Gums
Swollen, red gums are another key indicator of a dental abscess. The infection triggers an inflammatory response, leading to noticeable swelling and tenderness around the affected tooth. Patients often feel a sense of heaviness or discomfort in the area, along with other signs of gum inflammation.
4. Fever and General Illness
A dental abscess can lead to systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, and a general feeling of being unwell. This occurs as your body tries to fight the infection. Changes in taste or bad breath (halitosis) are also common with abscesses, indicating the presence of bacteria and infection.
5. Tooth Sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks may signal an abscessed tooth. The sensitivity is usually localized to the affected tooth and may be accompanied by other symptoms like swelling and pain. Our Somerville dentists can examine the tooth to confirm the presence of an abscess and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Why Prompt Treatment is Crucial
Delaying treatment of an abscessed tooth can result in the infection spreading to other parts of your head and neck, potentially leading to more serious health issues. A root canal treatment is typically recommended to eliminate the infection and save the tooth. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s essential to schedule a visit to Avalon Dental Center in Cambridge or Somerville, MA for a thorough evaluation.
Don’t Ignore the Signs – Get Help Now!
If you suspect you have an abscessed tooth, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our experienced team is here to answer your questions and provide the care you need to feel comfortable throughout your treatment.`
The delay and untreated abscessed tooth can involve the other tissues of the head and neck due to the spread of infection. Root canal treatment can eliminate the cause of infection and restore your teeth. If you have any sign of an abscessed tooth visits our dentists in Cambridge, MA for the complete dental examination and treatment of the abscessed tooth.
Don’t hesitate to contact us, we’ll answer any questions and make sure you get the help to feel comfortable with your treatment.
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