Tooth infections can impact more than just your tooth and gums. When left untreated, an infection can begin to affect other parts of your body, resulting in a fever and other symptoms. If you find your tooth is suddenly sensitive to the touch or that the surrounding gum tissue is swollen or hot, it is likely you are experiencing an infection.
A tooth infection is often a result of a more serious oral health condition like periodontitis or gingivitis, and it should be looked at by an oral health professional as quickly as possible. The team at Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group is composed of a team of highly-trained, knowledgeable, and compassionate oral and maxillofacial surgeons who have been specifically trained to address any tooth infections, their symptoms, and root causes. Our minimally invasive surgical techniques make for a painless and speedy recovery process.
How to Tell If a Tooth Infection Is Making You Sick
Tooth infections are fairly easy to spot. If you find yourself unable to chew, bite, or speak without experiencing sharp pains in your tooth or the surrounding gum tissue, it is likely that something is off. Other warning signs of a tooth infection could include:
- Swollen gums
- Bad breath even with regular brushing and flossing
- Bleeding
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Pain when using a straw
- Swollen glands in your neck
If left untreated, the tooth infection can begin to spread and affect other parts of your body. These symptoms can make you feel like you are sick with a regular cold. Fever and chills are both possible signs your infection is spreading. This is a sign you may be about to lose the tooth to infection, so receiving adequate dental care is imperative. A tooth infection will not heal itself or go away with time and requires professional treatment, including antibiotics.
How a Qualified Oral Surgeon Can Help
When it comes to a tooth infection, your best course of action is to receive a professional examination from a qualified oral surgeon as soon as possible. The quicker your treatments can begin, the faster your symptoms can begin to heal. The team at Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group is ready to perform a personalized examination and consultation where we will discuss your specific concerns and pains. From here, we will utilize a variety of non-invasive diagnostic techniques to identify the root cause of your infection and devise a unique plan of action.
For example, if your tooth infection is a result of gum disease, your treatment plan will not only address the tooth infection but also the overall status of your oral health. We can treat the infection through a variety of surgical procedures, including a root canal, scaling and planing, or antibiotics. Often, if the infection has been allowed to spread without treatment, your oral surgeon will recommend a dental crown. To ensure the area does not become reinfected, your gum disease will be addressed and treated as well. This ensures you are able to regain full function and aesthetic of your mouth.
Schedule Your Consultation and Examination Today
Don’t try to push forward without having your toothache looked at by a professional. At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we’re dedicated to ensuring everyone has a painless smile they can be proud of. We understand that dental care can be overwhelming and costly to address, which is why our team offers affordable, personalized oral health services to our local community. Our highly-qualified team is here to support you through every step of the process.
To get started on your smile transformation, schedule your consultation today by calling our office at (908) 663-5309 or using our online contact form.
