Have you been experiencing the throbbing discomfort of a toothache? While you may think it will eventually go away or you are just simply postponing getting it looked at, it is important to visit your emergency dentist as soon as possible. Oftentimes, pain in your mouth is a sign that your tooth is infected, which can affect your overall health if left untreated. Here’s why it is important to take care of an infected tooth right away and how your emergency dentist can help.
The Dangers of a Tooth Infection
If a cavity or accident damages the enamel of a tooth, the bacteria in your mouth can infect the sensitive inner pulp of the tooth. This is where the nerve of your tooth is housed, which will send pain signals if attacked by bacteria.
The discomfort of an infected tooth is not only difficult enough to deal with, but it can also begin to affect your overall health. Unlike the rest of your body, your teeth are unable to fight off infections themselves. Without intervention from a dentist, the infection can permanently damage the tooth and spread to other parts of your mouth. What’s more, should this infection escape into your bloodstream, it could travel to other parts of your body and cause more serious problems. Sepsis, meningitis, and respiratory issues are the more detrimental possibilities when an infection of the tooth spreads.
5 Signs an Infection Has Spread
One of the most common indications that there is an infection in your mouth is severe discomfort. If the condition is untreated and beginning to spread from your mouth to other parts of your body, the following symptoms may occur:
- Facial swelling
- Difficulty chewing, eating, or opening your mouth
- A fever
- Stomach pain
- Dehydration
- Fatigue and headaches
How Your Dentist Can Help
Of course, these conditions can also be signs of something other than an infection. However, the message is clear: a toothache is a dental emergency. By contacting your dental office right away to schedule a same-day visit, they can perform an in-depth exam and discover the root of the issue. If it is an infection, your dental team will work quickly to decide what the best treatment option will be for the most efficient and effective healing.
With the help of your emergency dentist, you will return to your healthy smile before you know it!
About the Author
Dr. Carole Emanuel and her dedicated team are eager to help you with any of your oral health needs. She earned her dental doctorate from Indiana University School of Dentistry and has extensively studied a variety of specialties through 500+ hours of continuing education. By offering same-day appointments and using advanced dental technology, she will be able to assist you with your dental emergency so you to return to a thriving smile as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment, contact her through her website or call (303) 986-0090.