Having an infection in a tooth is not something that should be ignored. Sometimes it begins as a slight discomfort, but it can progress quickly and become a serious problem. Recognizing the signs and acting quickly can make the difference between a simple treatment or something more complex and painful.
What is dental infection?
A dental infection is an inflammatory process caused by bacteria that enter areas where they should not be, such as the tooth pulp or the tissues surrounding it. When this happens, the body reacts by generating pain, inflammation and even the formation of pus. If the infection is not treated quickly, it can spread to other parts of the mouth or even the face, causing more serious and complex problems to treat.
Normally, an infection does not appear from one day to the next, but it develops little by little due to a previous problem that has not been treated. However, when the symptoms appear, they are usually very evident and painful, which makes this situation a dental emergency that must be treated as soon as possible.
Causes
Dental infections can originate from several very common day-to-day situations: a deep cavity that progresses without treatment, an excessive accumulation of plaque that inflames the gums, a dental fissure, or even the complicated eruption of a wisdom tooth. All these situations open the door for bacteria to enter internal areas of the tooth or the gums, where they multiply easily.
Insufficient hygiene, a diet high in sugars, fractured teeth or a weakened immune system can also play a role, making it easier for an infection to establish itself and progress.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms are:
- Intense or throbbing pain
- Discomfort when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to cold or heat
- Swollen or reddened gums
- Bad taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath
- Appearance of a small “ball” of pus on the gum
- Swelling of the face or jaw
- Fever or general discomfort
Types of dental infections
There are several types of dental infections, and although all of them require professional attention, each one affects a different area of the mouth.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the most superficial infection and affects only the gums. It is caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque, which inflames and reddens the tissues. Although it usually begins with bleeding when brushing, if it is not treated it can progress to a deeper infection.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more advanced infection that affects not only the gums but also the bone that supports the teeth. When bacteria reach this area, the damage is greater and can cause tooth mobility. It usually develops silently, but when symptoms appear it is important to act quickly to avoid tooth loss.
Pulpitis
Pulpitis occurs when the infection reaches the inside of the tooth. The pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes inflamed and generates strong, continuous pain. This situation is usually related to deep cavities or dental fractures. If not treated in time, it can turn into an abscess.
Dental abscess
A dental abscess is an accumulation of pus caused by the proliferation of bacteria. It can form at the root of the tooth or in the gum. In addition to pain, it can cause swelling and a bad taste in the mouth. It is a clear dental emergency, as the infection can spread quickly.
Pericoronitis
Pericoronitis is the infection that appears around an erupting tooth, especially wisdom teeth. The gum that partially covers the tooth traps bacteria, causing inflammation, difficulty opening the mouth and pain when chewing.
We help you with dental infection
When facing a dental infection, the most important thing is to act quickly. Waiting will only make the pain worse and the infection more complicated. In these cases, going to a clinic that offers dental emergency services is the best decision.
At Gross Dentistas, our dental clinic in Torremolinos and Málaga, we have a team specialized in treating dental infections and emergencies every day of the year. We carry out precise diagnoses, prescribe medication when necessary and perform treatments such as root canal therapy to save the tooth and eliminate the infection at its source.
If you notice pain, inflammation or suspect you may have a dental infection, do not ignore it. In our clinics in Málaga and Torremolinos we provide quick and friendly care so you can recover your well-being as soon as possible. Contact us, book an appointment and visit our emergency clinic.
Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.
