Reviewed by Dr. Tiffany Deaton
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Reading time: three minutes
Tooth infections can cause pain, swelling, sensitivity, and pressure around the affected tooth or gums. While some infections begin with mild symptoms, they can worsen over time and may spread if left untreated.
With two convenient locations in Summerville, Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages.
Table of Contents
What Are the Symptoms of a Tooth Infection?
A tooth infection, also called a dental abscess, can develop when bacteria enter the inner part of the tooth or surrounding gums.
Common tooth infection symptoms include:
- Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
- Swelling in the gums, cheek, or jaw
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A bad taste in the mouth or bad breath
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes
- Pressure around the tooth or face
Some infections may drain on their own temporarily, causing a foul taste in the mouth. However, this does not mean the infection has healed.
Is an Abscessed Tooth a Dental Emergency?
A tooth infection should always be evaluated by a dentist, but certain symptoms may indicate the infection is becoming more serious.
Signs that you should seek prompt dental care include:
- Swelling that spreads into the cheek or jaw
- Difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth
- Fever or chills
- Severe or worsening pain
- Facial swelling
- Pus or drainage around the tooth
Dental infections and abscessed teeth are usually best treated in a dental office, but serious symptoms need immediate medical care. If you have difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing, a high fever, or rapidly spreading facial swelling, seek emergency medical care right away.
What Causes a Tooth Infection?
Tooth infections usually develop when bacteria enter the tooth through damage or decay.
Common causes include:
- Untreated cavities
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Deep gum disease
- Failed fillings or dental crowns
- Dental trauma or injury
Poor oral hygiene and delaying treatment can increase the risk of infection progressing.
How Dentists Treat an Abscessed Tooth
Treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection. During your visit, the dentist will examine the area and may take digital X-rays to evaluate the tooth and surrounding bone.
Treatment may include:
- Draining the abscess
- Root canal therapy to remove infected tissue
- Antibiotics in some cases
- Tooth extraction if the tooth cannot be saved
Comfort-Focused Care for Tooth Infections
Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry provide personalized care focused on comfort, communication, and clear treatment planning. Drs. Rhett Deaton and Tiffany Deaton take time to explain your options so you can feel informed throughout your visit.
They use digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and digital scanners to support accurate diagnosis. Some root canals and extractions are performed in-office, while more complex cases may be referred to trusted local specialists. Same-day emergency dental care may also be available when scheduling allows.
Dentist in Summerville, SC
To book an appointment at Deaton Dental Associates, call (843) 873-3706 or visit us at 209 W 5th N St, Summerville, SC 29483.
To book an appointment at Flowertown Dentistry, call (843) 871-0814 or visit us at 445 North Cedar St, Summerville, SC 29483.
FAQs
Can a tooth infection go away on its own?
While symptoms may temporarily improve, the infection itself usually does not go away without professional dental treatment.
What does an abscessed tooth look like?
An abscessed tooth may cause swelling in the gums or face and can sometimes appear as a pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth.
What is the fastest way to get rid of a tooth infection?
The fastest way to treat a tooth infection is to see a dentist. Treatment may involve draining the abscess, root canal therapy, antibiotics, or removing the tooth if it cannot be saved.
What are the symptoms of a tooth infection spreading to the body?
Symptoms may include fever, chills, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, worsening pain, facial swelling, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. These symptoms require urgent dental or medical care.
