How to Manage Tooth Infections

Maintaining proper dental hygiene is crucial for healthy teeth and gums. However, teeth can still become infected, and anyone who has experienced a toothache due to infected teeth or tooth abscess knows how painful it can be. You may need to see a reliable root canal dentist for emergency treatment. Understanding how teeth become infected can help you take proactive steps to avoid tooth infections from root canals to wisdom teeth removal with a dentist in Vaughan. So, how do your teeth get infected? Read on!

Causes of Tooth Infections

Tooth infections occur when bacteria invade the sensitive tooth pulp––the soft tissue inside your teeth. The dental pulp contains blood vessels, connective tissue, and a network of nerves that keep your teeth healthy and functional. Infected tooth pulp can cause severe pain and swelling.

Though poor dental hygiene plays a role, there are numerous other causes of tooth infections:

• Bacteria: Bacterial build-up on teeth can lead to tooth decay and dental caries. Bacteria can invade a crack, chip in the teeth and reach the pulp to cause an infection.  
• Untreated Cavities: An untreated tooth cavity can deteriorate into a painful infection when it reaches the tooth pulp. You may require a root canal dentist for relief and treatment. 
• Poor Dental Hygiene: bacteria can thrive when you neglect daily brushing and proper dental hygiene. Brushing twice daily, regular flossing and regular dental checkups from a professional dentist in Vaughan are essential steps in preventing tooth infections.
• Consuming Excess Sugar: Sugar provides fodder to the harmful bacteria inside your mouth. As they feed on sugar, bacteria produce acidic waste that corrodes the tooth enamel and triggers infections. 
• Gum disease: Gum disease is an infection of the gums that spreads to the teeth and cause an abscess.

Symptoms of Tooth Infections

• Pain when chewing or biting
• Swollen, tender gums or jaw
• Sensitivity to hot/cold temperatures
• Fever and chills
• Swelling in the lymph nodes around the tooth
• Bad breath 
• Foul taste in the mouth
• Sensitivity to pressure   
• Throbbing or gnawing toothache

Tooth infection symptoms can vary according to the severity of the infection. Visit a dentist in Vaughan if you experience one or more of the above symptoms. Neglecting a tooth infection can have serious repercussions, as the infection can spread to other body parts. 

Tooth Infectation Treatment Options

The treatment for a tooth infection may vary from case to case. Some conditions require simple restoration, while others might need a root canal dentist to remove the infected pulp. The tooth may need to be extracted to prevent the spread of the infection in more severe cases. Your dentist in Vaughan may also prescribe antibiotics to help fight and clear up the infection. As mentioned earlier, untreated tooth infections can be critical and even life-threatening. Seeking early treatment can stop the infection from spreading and help save your tooth.

Mackenzie Dental Centre & Tooth Infections Treatment

Don’t let annoying tooth infections ruin your smile! Trust the expertise of Dr.Llyof Pedvis and his dedicated team of dentists in Woodbridge, Vaughan. From routine checkups to root canal procedures and wisdom teeth removal to cosmetic dentistry, our experienced dental specialists are with you every step of your treatment.

Schedule your appointment at the Mackenzie Dental Centre today, and let us help you maintain a beautiful, bountiful smile!