Signs of an Infected Tooth

Tooth abscesses commonly produce localized sensitivity. If you notice a single tooth is more sensitive to temperature fluctuations, you may be suffering from a tooth infection. Additional symptoms may include localized pain which can be throbbing, sharp, or a combination. Pain is always an indication that it’s time to call the dentist for an examination.

But not everyone who has an infected tooth experiences pain. Sometimes, you might actually be experiencing tooth pain, but you think it’s a headache or sinus pain. Other times, you might not feel pain at all. Most of the time, pain in a tooth is related to pressure that builds up in the tooth. But if the cavity that allowed access to the tooth pulp also allows drainage from the tooth, there’s less cause for pain.

But pain is not the only symptom of abscessed teeth you should look out for.

Advanced symptoms of tooth infection may include:

• A chronic bad taste in the mouth
• Bad breath that fails to respond to brushing
• Changes in tooth color
• Red or swollen gum tissue around a specific tooth
• Pimples on the gums

Many of these symptoms can also indicate gum disease or another oral health issue and should be brought to Dr. Marzban’s attention as soon as they occur.

Don’t Ignore an Abscessed Tooth

If you think you have an abscessed tooth, contact Dr. Marzban right away. Do not ignore the symptoms of an abscessed tooth: the consequences could be serious. Instead of having one tooth to treat, if you wait, the infection could affect other teeth, which may not be treatable.

Infection from an abscessed tooth can spread through your body. It can travel from the tooth to your sinuses and then to your brain. It can also spread from your tooth into your bloodstream and then your lungs. These infections can be difficult to treat. They can even be fatal.

Treating Infected Teeth

Once a tooth has become infected, the only way to prevent its loss is through root canal treatment. Dr. Marzban utilizes advanced techniques that effectively remove infection and protect impacted teeth without causing any pain or discomfort to the patient. However, if you are nervous about root canal treatment, Dr. Marzban would be happy to discuss your sedation dentistry options during your treatment consultation.

If you believe you have an infected tooth, please contact our experienced Fairfax dentist for a root canal evaluation today. Based in Burke, Dr. Marzban serves Fairfax, Fairfax Station, and nearby Virginia communities.