Oral infections can sometimes develop seemingly out of nowhere, leaving you in pain and unsure of how to proceed. They can disrupt your daily activities, affecting your ability to eat, speak, or enjoy the things you love. Whether caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, untreated oral infections can become serious if not addressed in time.
At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we’re committed to providing exceptional care for those suffering from oral infections. Our team strives to create a compassionate, patient-first environment, making your journey to recovery as comfortable as possible.
What Are Common Symptoms of Oral Infections?
If you think you have an oral infection, early signs can range from mild discomfort to more severe symptoms. A red flag is experiencing persistent pain, especially if it’s coupled with swelling, redness, or an unpleasant odor. Oral infections often cause noticeable changes in the appearance and condition of your mouth.
Other key indicators include:
- Pain while chewing or swallowing
- Swelling around the gums, teeth, or jaw
- Fever or chills
- Red, inflamed, or bleeding gums
- Pus or discharge in your mouth
These symptoms can be caused by tooth infections, abscesses, or gum disease, which should all be taken seriously. The longer you delay professional care, the higher the chance the infection could spread, resulting in complications such as systemic infection or tooth loss.
Causes of Oral Infections You Should Be Aware Of
The mouth is home to many bacteria, and infections can develop when there’s a disruption in its natural balance. The CDC reports the most common oral conditions that cause severe consequences on overall health and quality of life include untreated cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
These infections can sometimes be triggered or worsened by certain lifestyle factors, including:
- Poor dental hygiene
- Smoking
- Unbalanced diet
Other than tooth infections, abscesses can develop around the root of a tooth or on the gums, which often results from bacterial buildup. In some cases, a bacterial infection may cause an abscess in the jaw or bone, making early diagnosis and treatment essential to avoid extensive damage to your jaw structure.
What Are Effective Treatment Options for Oral Infections?
Once you’ve recognized the symptoms of an oral infection, seeking treatment should be your top priority. Most oral infections require professional intervention to prevent complications.
Standard treatment approaches include:
- Antibiotics: Typically prescribed to treat bacterial infections and eliminate the infection-causing bacteria.
- Drainage and removal of infected tissue: In cases of abscesses, your dentist or oral surgeon may need to drain the pus and infected material for relief.
- Root canals or tooth removal: This may be necessary if the infection is severe and affects the tooth pulp.
- Surgical care: For deeper infections, especially those affecting the jawbone, surgical intervention may be required.
Based on the severity of the infection, your dentist or oral surgeon will customize a treatment plan based on your unique needs.
Preventing Future Oral Infections Through Proper Care
Prevention and proper dental care habits are the best strategies when it comes to protecting your oral health. Here are some habits you can adapt to help keep your mouth healthy:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that contribute to bacterial buildup.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
- Avoid smoking, as it can increase your risk of gum disease and oral infections.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support strong oral health.
Following these simple steps can prevent future infections and maintain optimal oral hygiene.
Schedule Your Oral Examination at Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group Today
It’s important not to ignore signs of an oral infection or wait for symptoms to improve on their own. The sooner you get treated, the less likely you are to experience long-term complications that could affect your oral health.
At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we understand how frustrating and painful oral infections can be. That’s why we provide customized care and utilize the most advanced methods to guarantee you get the best possible treatment. Complete our contact form or call (908) 663-5309 today to book your consultation at our Elizabeth office. We’re ready to help you regain your oral health!
