Don’t Ignore the Signs: Understanding Dental Infections and When to Seek Help
Dental infections can catch you off guard, starting as a dull ache and quickly turning into a serious health concern. While it’s tempting to brush off a little pain or swelling, ignoring the signs of a dental infection can lead to severe complications, including tooth loss, abscesses, and even life-threatening conditions if left untreated.
At Surrey Dental Spa, we want you to be empowered with knowledge about your oral health. In this blog, we’ll highlight the signs and symptoms of dental infections, what causes them, how they’re treated, and why early treatment is essential.
What Exactly Is a Dental Infection?
A dental infection, also called a tooth abscess, is when bacteria builds up in the mouth and forms together creating an abscess due to infection in or around a tooth. Infections can affect different areas, such as:
· The tooth pulp (nerve and blood supply)
· The gum tissue
· The bone supporting your teeth
These infections often develop when bacteria from tooth decay, gum disease, or dental trauma enter the tooth’s inner structures or surrounding tissues.
Common Causes of Dental Infections
Understanding the initial cause can help you prevent future issues. Common causes include:
· Untreated cavities – Tooth decay allows bacteria to invade deeper into the tooth.
· Impacted wisdom teeth – Especially prone to infection due to being hard to clean properly.
· Broken teeth – These can expose inside the tooth to bacteria.
· Gum disease (periodontitis) – Can lead to deep pockets where bacteria thrive.
· Failed dental work – Old or leaking fillings and crowns may trap bacteria.
Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Dental infections often present a range of symptoms. While some signs are obvious, others can be less but all should be seen to.
1. Persistent or Severe Toothache
A constant throbbing pain that may travel to your jaw, ear, or neck is a common sign of infection. Pain when biting or chewing is also a cause for concern.
2. Swollen Face, Jaw, or Gums
Facial swelling, especially around the painful area, can be a sign of an abscess. You may also notice a swollen lymph node under your jaw.
3. Pus or a lump on the Gums
Look for any small bumps near the tooth, especially if they leak pus or cause a bad taste in your mouth.
4. Bad Breath or Metallic Taste
An infection can produce foul-smelling discharge, resulting in bad breath that doesn’t go away even with maintaining proper oral care.
5. Sensitivity to Temperature or Pressure
Teeth affected by infection may become very sensitive to hot, cold, or even pressure.
6. Fever and Fatigue
As your body fights the infection, you might develop a fever, feel unwell, or struggle with fatigue.
7. Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing
This is a medical emergency. It may mean the infection is spreading and could impact your airway or bloodstream. Seek immediate help.
How Dental Infections Are Diagnosed
At Surrey Dental Spa, we use a combination of advanced diagnostics to detect and assess infections:
· Digital X-rays to view inside teeth and under the gums
· Thermal sensitivity tests
· Percussion testing to check for pain response
· Clinical examination of soft tissues and visible abscesses
Treatment Options at Surrey Dental Spa
The treatment you need depends on the location and severity of the infection. At Surrey Dental Spa, we offer:
Root Canal Therapy
To remove infected pulp, clean the canal, and seal the tooth. This is often the best way to save an infected tooth.
Antibiotics
Prescribed when the infection has spread or is causing systemic symptoms like fever or facial swelling.
Tooth Extraction
In cases where the tooth is too damaged to save, extraction may be necessary to stop the spread.
Incision and Drainage
To relieve pressure from built-up pus in a gum or periodontal abscess.
Can You Prevent Dental Infections?
Yes — with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. Here’s how to reduce your risk:
· Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
· Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth
· Avoid sugary snacks and acidic drinks
· Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended
· Visit Surrey Dental Spa every 6 months for professional cleanings and exams
· Don’t ignore small issues, a small cavity can lead to a big infection!
Why Early Treatment Matters
Dental infections won’t go away on their own. Left untreated, they can spread to the jawbone, sinuses, and even the brain. In rare but serious cases, they can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening systemic blood infection.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment not only protect your oral health but also prevent long-term complications and costly dental work in the future.
When to Visit Surrey Dental Spa
If you’re dealing with any signs of infection – pain, swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth, don’t wait! Our expert team at Surrey Dental Spa is here to help with comprehensive care in a calming environment.
We offer:
· Same-day emergency appointments
· Late evening appointments
· Root canal and surgical options
· Pain management for nervous patients
· Personalised treatment plans and preventive advice
Your Smile Is Our Priority
At Surrey Dental Spa, your health and comfort come first. We understand how stressful a dental infection can be, and we’re committed to providing quick, gentle, and effective solutions to get you smiling again.
Don’t suffer in silence, take action today. Call us now to schedule your consultation.
Surrey Dental Spa Location: North Cheam Phone: 0208 404 8080 Open: Monday to Friday| Emergency slots available
