Tooth Infections

A tooth infection, also known as an abscessed tooth, is a very painful infection, which usually occurs at the root of a tooth or between the gum and the tooth. It is most commonly caused by severe tooth decay, but can also be caused when a tooth is chipped or broken or when you’re already suffering from gingivitis or gum disease.

There are several symptoms of an abscessed tooth, which should not be ignored. These symptoms include:

• Pain when chewing
• Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold
• Bitter taste
• Fever
• Swollen glands
• Foul smelling breath
• Open sores in the mouth or gums
• Redness and swelling of the gums
• Swollen area of the upper or lower jaw

It’s important to remember that even though the pulp inside the root of your tooth may die as a result of the infection, which would cause the pain to stop, this doesn’t mean the infection has gone away. Until it’s been treated, the infection will remain active and continue to spread and destroy even more tissue. It’s very important to come in and see Dr. Behnaz Raisdana if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms.

An abscessed tooth can be prevented as long as you follow good oral hygiene and call our office in Wichita, Kansas immediately if you think you may have a cavity or if you experience a chipped or loosened tooth.