Imagine waking up to a throbbing pain in your mouth that refuses to subside, accompanied by pain and a persistent bad taste. These symptoms could be signs of a tooth infection, a dental condition that can turn even the simplest tasks into excruciating ordeals.
Tooth infections, also known as dental abscesses, occur when harmful bacteria invade the innermost part of the tooth, leading to an inflammatory response and pus formation.
Oral infections typically occur due to untreated dental cavities or tooth decay. When the protective outer layer of the tooth, known as enamel, is compromised, bacteria can infiltrate the tooth and reach the soft pulp tissue containing nerves and blood vessels.
As the infection progresses, a collection of pus, known as an abscess, forms at the tooth’s root, causing intense pain, bleeding, and sometimes a pimple-like lesion on the gum. In addition to dental decay, tooth infections can also stem from cracked teeth, gum disease, or trauma that exposes the tooth’s inner layers to bacteria.
So the question now is…
What to do if tooth infection swells?
1. Tooth Extraction
Generally, tooth extraction is the last option to solve dental infections. However, if the swelling from a tooth infection is severe, your dentist may recommend extracting the tooth.
This procedure involves removing the infected tooth and any surrounding damaged tissue. The extraction relieves pain and helps prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the mouth or body.
Tooth extractions are typically performed under local anesthesia, and in most cases, they are performed after relieving the teeth and gums from swelling. Remember to look for a tooth extraction near South Morang to ensure reliable treatment.
2. Take Prescribed Antibiotics
Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection and reduce swelling. You must finish the entire course of treatment as prescribed by your dentist, even if the symptoms start to improve during treatment. This helps ensure all bacteria are eliminated and prevents the infection from returning.
3. Monitor the Swelling
Monitoring the swelling following a tooth extraction or antibiotic treatment is essential. If the swelling increases, it could indicate that another dental procedure, such as a root canal, may be needed to remove any remaining infected tissue entirely.
4. Use Warm Saltwater Mouth Rinses
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water several times a day can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation caused by a dental abscess. The saltwater helps to reduce bacteria and draw out any infection from the affected area.
5. Take Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate the discomfort associated with a tooth infection. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and relieves pain by blocking the production of chemicals that cause these symptoms. Acetaminophen can help reduce fever and relieve pain but does not reduce swelling.
6. Apply a Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the swollen area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain associated with a tooth infection. Cold therapy reduces blood flow to the affected area, which helps to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
Cold compress application can also help reduce pain by numbing nerve endings in the affected area. When selecting a cold compress, use an ice pack or something similar that will not cause skin irritation.
7. Avoid Too Hot or Cold Foods and Drinks
Sensitive teeth resulting from a dental infection can be painful, especially when exposed to temperature extremes. Eating or drinking food that is too hot or cold can cause toothache and inflammation to worsen.
To avoid this, it is best to stick to lukewarm or room-temperature items, including drinks such as tea and coffee. Avoiding excessive sugary snacks and drinks can also help reduce your risk of further tooth decay or infection.
8. Schedule a Follow-up Appointment
Following any dental procedure or treatment for a tooth infection, scheduling a follow-up appointment with your dentist is essential. This allows your dentist to ensure the infection is fully cleared and inspect the affected area for any remaining condition.
Furthermore, a follow-up appointment allows your dentist to examine your teeth and gums and monitor the healing process.
9. Avoid Chewing on the Affected Site
Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth minimises pressure on a swollen area. This helps reduce discomfort while allowing for healing and the risk of further infection or damage. Chewing on the opposite side also prevents any food particles or debris from entering the affected area, which can lead to further irritation or even infection.
10. Don’t Attempt to Pop the Swelling
Attempting to drain the swelling can be extremely dangerous and lead to further complications. Doing so can spread bacteria causing the infection, make it harder to treat, and even lead to more pain. A dentist with experience dealing with these conditions is highly recommended to handle the swelling professionally.
A dentist can adequately drain the swelling and provide any additional treatment or medication that may be necessary. By visiting your South Morang dentist, you can get an accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your oral health.
So contact SmileVille today and get those tooth infections at bay!