How to Get Rid of a Tooth Infection

When bacteria enter the pulp of a tooth (where the nerve, connective tissue, and blood vessels are located) through a cavity or another form of dental damage, an infection can develop inside the tooth. Typically, an infected or “abscessed” tooth reaches a point where it causes a noticeable degree of pain and sensitivity, along with other symptoms like swelling along the gums, pressure, tenderness, inflamed lymph nodes, and/or an undesirable taste in the mouth.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is important to make an appointment with one of our dentists at True Dentistry right away for an examination and any necessary treatment. Prompt treatment of an infection can provide relief from discomfort and help prevent the need for eventual extraction of the tooth. Your dentist will take X-rays and examine the problem area to determine exactly which steps to take in order to restore optimal oral health. Typically, root canal treatment is performed to eliminate the infection from inside the tooth, while additional therapies may be used to address infection that extends outside of the tooth (i.e. within the gums or bone tissue).

During a root canal, which is also called endodontic therapy, your dentist will create an opening at the top of the tooth. Through this opening, he or she will use slender endodontic tools to thoroughly clean out the infected pulp and bacteria from the canals. The tooth is then filled and may require a custom inlay, onlay, or crown for full restoration. The exact specifics of the restoration process are based on the unique needs of the patient. Additionally, if any infection is present outside of the tooth—for example, below the root or along the gumline—these areas will also be cleaned and sterilized. A round of oral antibiotics are frequently prescribed to suppress bacteria and prevent re-infection, and ARESTIN^® antibiotic microspheres are sometimes placed in the gum pockets to deliver long-lasting anti-bacterial protection in high-risk areas as they heal.

Are you concerned that you may have an infected tooth? Contact True Dentistry today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dentists.