Tooth infections happen more often than people realize, but it’s easy to shrug off those first warning signs. Maybe you notice a bit of pain or some sensitivity—nothing major, right? Still, ignoring these early symptoms can turn a simple problem into a major dental emergency.
At Valley Dental in Riverview, we see just how fast a tooth infection can spiral. One minute it’s a little ache, the next you’re dealing with swelling, throbbing pain, and a whole lot more. So what actually happens when you let a tooth infection go untreated? Let’s walk through it.
How a Tooth Infection Turns Into an Emergency
First off, you need to know what’s really going on when a tooth gets infected. Usually, the trouble starts deep inside the tooth in the pulp—the soft tissue that keeps your tooth alive. Bacteria sneak in through a cavity, a crack, or even an injury, and once inside, they start to multiply. This kicks off inflammation and infection.
If you don’t visit an emergency dentist in Riverview to treat it, the infection spreads. Pain gets worse. Gums swell up. Sometimes, you’ll notice a pocket of pus (that’s an abscess) forming near the root. The bacteria can even reach the jawbone. So what started as a minor annoyance suddenly becomes a much bigger deal.
Don’t Ignore the Red Flags
A lot of people think early symptoms aren’t a big deal, but brushing them off is risky. Here’s what to watch for:
- Tooth pain that just won’t quit—especially if it gets worse when you chew or touch the tooth.
- Swelling in your gums or face around the sore tooth.
- Extra sensitivity to hot or cold—usually a sign the infection’s hit a nerve.
- Bad taste in your mouth or constant bad breath—often caused by pus draining from the infection.
Letting these signs go unchecked gives the infection time to dig in deeper. That can mean an abscess, or even, in rare cases, dangerous complications like sepsis. That’s why catching things early matters.
What Happens When It Turns Into an Emergency
If you put off treatment, the infection doesn’t just hang around—it gets worse. It can eat away at the bone, loosen the tooth, and cause abscesses (which are as painful as they sound). At that point, you’re looking at emergency dental care.
In severe cases, the infection can spread beyond your mouth. If it reaches your bloodstream, it can lead to sepsis, which is life-threatening. That’s why you shouldn’t ignore an infection, even if it seems minor at first.
When to See an Emergency Dentist in Riverview
If you notice any of those symptoms, don’t wait—reach out to an emergency dentist in Riverview right away. The longer you put it off, the tougher (and pricier) it gets to fix.
An emergency dentist can get things under control fast. They might drain an abscess, prescribe antibiotics, or recommend a root canal or extraction if things are terrible. Their goal is to stop the infection, save your tooth if possible, and prevent it from getting worse.
Why Acting Fast Makes a Difference
The best way to dodge a dental emergency? Don’t skip your regular dentist visits. Checkups help spot minor problems, like tiny cavities or cracks, before they turn into infections.
When you come to Valley Dental, we’ll check your teeth and gums, give you tips to avoid infections, and catch any issues early. Fixing things early is always cheaper, easier, and way less painful than waiting for a full-blown emergency.
Don’t wait for things to get worse – reach out to Valley Dental Riverview and take care of your teeth before a small problem turns into a big one.
FAQs:
- What causes a tooth infection?
A tooth infection typically results from untreated cavities, cracked teeth, or gum disease, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth’s pulp. - How can I tell if my tooth infection is serious?
Look for symptoms such as severe tooth pain, swelling, and bad breath. If the pain worsens or spreads to other areas, seek immediate care. - Can a tooth infection go away on its own?
While some minor infections may seem to improve temporarily, it’s always best to seek professional care to prevent the disease from spreading or causing serious complications. - What should I do if I have a dental emergency in Riverview?
If you experience severe tooth pain or swelling, contact an emergency dentist in Riverview immediately to prevent further damage or infection. - Is a root canal necessary for an untreated tooth infection?
If the infection has reached the tooth’s pulp, a root canal is often required to save the tooth and remove the infection. Your dentist will assess the best treatment option.
