Do you have a moderate or severe toothache? While you might think it’ll go away on its own, it’s possible that you have a dental emergency at hand. This means you should visit your dentist right away and not hold off on getting the necessary treatment. Ignoring the condition can be detrimental to your dental and overall health, especially if it’s due to a tooth infection. Read on to learn why overlooking a toothache can be fatal.
What Causes a Tooth Infection?
Most tooth infections are caused by improper care of the teeth—including excessive sugar consumption, a lack of dental hygiene, or some other source that harbors bacteria in the mouth (like drinking or smoking). These microbes can multiply and cause inflammation, tooth abscess, or decay. Without the proper treatment, the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body and create more health problems, including gum and heart disease.
The Dangers of Overlooking a Tooth Infection
Tooth infections are the primary cause of hospitalization in the United States. Since this condition can travel to other areas of the body, it can lead to serious and fatal illnesses, such as a periapical abscess. If left untreated, you might even increase your risk of the loss of cognitive abilities. For this reason, you should always reach out to your dentist before a tooth infection begins getting out of control. They can detect the root cause of your situation and provide the necessary treatments to get you back to good dental health.
When Should You Call Your Dentist?
Always schedule a visit with your emergency dentist if you experience any of the following the symptoms:
- Swollen and red gums.
- Persistent throbbing at the location of discomfort.
- A fever or high temperatures and ear pain.
- Difficulty chewing and eating.
- Swollen cheeks, jaw, and sore throat.
- An unpleasant or bitter taste in the mouth.
Cleaning your teeth daily, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, and visiting your dentist regularly is the best way to avoid tooth infections! Be sure to contact your dental team if you have any concerns, and they’ll be happy to help you.
About the Author
Dr. Mariya Barnett received her dental degree from the University of Michigan and earned her Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) at the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. With her passion for delivering outstanding and comprehensive dental care, she regularly pursues continuing education to improve her expertise. She provides a multitude of advanced treatments, including emergency dentistry and routine checkups/cleanings to keep your teeth healthy and safe. If you need to schedule an appointment for a toothache, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call us at 469-874-0469.
