When a tooth infection strikes, it’s more than just a minor inconvenience – it requires swift, expert care. Our team at Aspire Dental Wellness knows just how uncomfortable and worrisome this can be, which is why we tailor the tooth infection treatment to the unique situations of our patients. With that approach, we can get you smiling in no time! Here’s everything you need to know.
How Does a Tooth Infection Develop?
Nearly every case starts with decay, which happens when plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – starts to break down the enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth. Bacteria love to feast on sweetened coffee and other beverages, as well as sugary foods, producing acids that lead to dental cavities.
All in all, infection is the result of bacteria having an open invitation to the tooth and its surrounding tissues. This can happen for a variety of reasons:
- Cavities,
- Cracked or broken teeth,
- Tooth trauma,
- Impacted (stuck) teeth,
- Periodontal (gum) disease.
What Is a Tooth Abscess?
When researching this topic, you’ll stumble upon one medical term time and time again – tooth abscess. It’s an advanced form of infection that, in most cases, develops from an untreated cavity.
An abscess is essentially a pocket of pus that forms in the gums. If it’s visible, it shows up as a red, swollen bump – kind of like a pimple, but more uncomfortable. Luckily, as long as it’s promptly addressed, your dentist in Charlotte, NC, can help you treat the infection and get you back on track to a healthy, happy smile!
What Are the Symptoms of a Tooth Infection?
A tooth infection can sometimes be easy to spot, but it’s not always visible to the naked eye. It usually starts small and continues to progress, so acting on it as soon as possible is super important. Schedule a dentist check-up if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Discomfort around the tooth,
- Swelling or redness around the area,
- Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages,
- Difficulty chewing or even opening your mouth,
- Tender or swollen lymph nodes,
- A bitter taste lingering in the mouth,
- Persistent bad breath.
What Are Tooth Infection Treatment Options?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than a quarter of Americans have untreated cavities. It’s a real problem, one that can’t be solved by simply getting back on track with your oral hygiene routine.
Infections don’t disappear into thin air on their own, but our Charlotte, NC, dentist can always help. Whether you’re in need of a wisdom tooth infection treatment or something even more intricate, there are various options available:
- Draining the abscess – it’s the ultimate tooth infection swollen lymph nodes treatment, helping to drain the infection and get rid of any accompanying symptoms,
- Root canal treatment – entails getting rid of the infected pulp and inserting a dental crown to protect the root canal from an infection happening again,
- Tooth extraction – this is the last resort, completely removing the tooth from its socket and the infection along with it.
Sure, these treatments won’t exactly be the highlight of your week, but modern practices have made them much more comfortable and effective. In our clinic’s pursuit of a stress-free dentistry practice, we implement completely non-invasive methods such as laser therapy whenever possible. With our gentle approach, you’ll wonder why you were ever worried about sitting down in that dental chair!
We Offer Perio ProtectⓇ for Treating Gum Disease
If a part of the treatment needs to involve tackling your developing gum disease, your Charlotte dentist in SouthPark has got you covered with an innovative option – Perio ProtectⓇ. This non-invasive option often works in combination with other dental treatments, reducing the need for oral surgery.
Here’s how it works – you’ll get custom-made Perio ProtectⓇ trays that you fill with a hydrogen peroxide gel before popping them on. This gel will help wipe out the harmful bacteria hiding in your gums.
Most people start off by wearing the trays two or three times a day for just 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Once things are under control, you can cut back to even less time, keeping gum disease in check without any hassle. Who knew dental treatments could be so convenient?
Our General Dentistry in Charlotte, NC, Will Get You All-Around Care
Whether you’re in need of treatment for facial swelling when you have a tooth infection or just simple routine cleanings and exams, finding a good general dentistry practice is vital. With regular visits, you’ll not only be able to maintain great oral health, but your dentist will also be able to detect and prevent any potential issues early.
Even if everything’s healthy, you might need to restore your smile, and our team has got you covered here as well. Dental implants, fillings, crowns – you name it, and we have it. Led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, a dentist with plenty of experience in advanced cosmetic & laser dentistry, our team is all about finding solutions that are as effective as they are aesthetically pleasing!
Get In Touch for Your Healthiest Smile Yet
At Aspire Dental Wellness, we’re here to make sure you get the most effective, comfortable treatment possible. We are proud practitioners of personalized dental care and holistic dentistry, working with your unique needs and overall well-being in mind. Don’t wait – contact us today and let’s get your smile feeling fabulous again!
