An infected or abscessed tooth should never be ignored. Not that one really could, as dental infections often become extremely painful. What’s worse in the long term is that, left untreated, dental infection can spread to surrounding tissues or other areas of the body. Whether you’re concerned with immediate relief or the long run, seeking prompt care is important for protecting both your oral health and your overall well-being.
Warning Signs of a Tooth Infection
An abscess forms when bacteria infect the inner portion of the tooth or the surrounding gum tissue. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent throbbing tooth pain
- Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- A bad taste or odor in the mouth
- Pain when biting or chewing
In more advanced cases, an individual may also suffer from fever or swollen lymph nodes. In any of these cases, a prompt evaluation by an emergency dentist in Vallejo, like Dr. Morgan Nordstrom, DDS, can help determine the cause of the issue and the optimal treatment approach.
Treatment may involve draining the infection, root canal therapy, antibiotics, or restoration of the damaged tooth.
What You Should Do Immediately
Call your dentist as soon as symptoms appear. While waiting for your appointment, rinse gently with warm salt water and avoid chewing on the affected side. However, DO NOT place aspirin directly on the gums, as this can burn soft tissue.
Emergency Dental Infection Treatment in Vallejo, CA
If you’re in Vallejo and think you may need emergency dental care for an infected or abscessed tooth, contact Dr. Morgan Nordstrom and our compassionate, experienced team for prompt care.