Dental infections originate at the tooth or its supporting structures and can spread to the surrounding tissue. These infections most commonly occur when bacteria invade the pulp and spread to surrounding tissues. Infections can also affect the gums causing gingivitis, which can later cause periodontal disease.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This article is useful for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dental infections can happen to anyone, but they\u2019re most often caused by bacteria in your mouth that travels to the gums and teeth<\/a>. Bacteria is naturally occurring inside our mouths and stays on the surface of the teeth, gums, and tongue. When it gets in deep enough to form a small pocket (pus), it\u2019s called an infection. Some of the most common types of bacteria that cause dental infections include:<\/p>\n\n\n There are also viruses that can cause dental infections, including herpes and Epstein-Barr. Bacteria can travel to your teeth any time you have an open cut inside the mouth, but it\u2019s more likely to happen when gums are inflamed or have been pulled away from the teeth by receding gum tissue. There are many ways to get an infection in your mouth, and it can happen at any age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since every dental infection is unique and has its own set of symptoms, it can be tricky to spot one until it\u2019s reached a serious phase. Most dental infections, though, have some similarities that are worth noting if you\u2019re unsure what\u2019s causing your discomfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Swelling in the Gums<\/strong>– One of the earliest signs of a dental infection is some swelling in the gums, as bacteria travels from the root of a tooth to the gum tissue surrounding it. The swelling may be mild or severe, and sometimes it covers the entire gum line.<\/p>\n\n\n Toothache-<\/strong> Another symptom of a tooth infection is pain that may or may not be described as a toothache. <\/a>Toothaches can be sharp and sudden, or they can be more of a dull ache that never goes away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bad Breath<\/strong>– Bad breath can be caused by many things, but it\u2019s often a sign of a dental infection. Bacteria in the mouth (and on the teeth) produces toxins that cause foul-smelling compounds. Mouth odors can be particularly strong if you have a gum infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dental infections that aren\u2019t treated right away can lead to more serious problems. Such as an abscess, tetanus, and loss of teeth. If you have the signs of a serious dental infection, you need to see a dentist instead of trying to treat it at home. In some cases, a mild toothache can be caused by a dental infection. But it doesn\u2019t always progress to something more serious. A dentist can tell you if you have a dental infection and decide if you need antibiotics (or other treatment) to get rid of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have a dental infection, you\u2019ll likely be prescribed antibiotics. There are many different types of antibiotics, and some of them can be taken at home while others require you to go to the dentist\u2019s office to take them. In some cases, antibiotics will clear up the infection on their own. While in others they might be paired with some other kind of treatment. To help prevent dental infections, you can visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. You can also help yourself by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. Using mouthwash, and limiting sugary foods and drinks.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWho Is This Article For?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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What causes Dental Infections?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Signs of a Dental Infection<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Diagnosis of Dental Infection<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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When to see a Dentist instead of trying these techniques<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Treatment incase of an infection<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Seeing a Dentist after trying these techniques<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n