SPOTTING THE SYMPTOMS OF AN ABSCESSED TOOTH
Dentists serving Naples regularly warn their patients to watch out for signs of an abscessed tooth. As your dentist will advise you, abscesses are extremely painful and dangerous oral health problems. It is essential to seek professional dental care at the first sign of an abscess. Read on to learn more about how tooth pain, red gums, general discomfort may indicate the presence of a tooth abscess.
Tooth Pain
As your dentist will tell you, a dull ache or pain in the tooth and surrounding tissues is one of the first signs you may need dental care for your abscess. To avoid having the infection progress, which may lead to a tooth extraction, it is important to contact your dentists at the first sign of soreness or tenderness. Tooth pain occurs because the inner pulp of the tooth has become infected or inflamed. This infection causes the bone around the tooth to ache, because the surrounding tissue has expanded.
Red Gums
Red, sore gums are another sign that you need to speak to your dentist about a potential abscess. In endodontics, inflamed gums are a telltale sign that you may need a root canal for your abscessed tooth. Many patients experience swelling in the gum tissue. There may also be a pocket of pus in the gums surrounding the tooth. Swellling may also occur in the upper or lower jaw. If the infection has progressed, you may also suffer from chronic bad breath, or halitosis.
General Discomfort
Even if you are not experiencing tooth pain or sore gums, general discomfort is another reason to schedule an appointment with your prosthodontist. Many people with an abscessed tooth report flu-like symptoms, including a fever or swollen glands. Abscesses may also lead to pain when chewing or sudden sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold foods and drinks. If you feel any discomfort, seek dental care right away, even if the pain subsides.
