An infected tooth is not just painful, but can be a nuisance to your everyday activities. More importantly, it can have far-reaching consequences for your overall health if left untreated.

Signs of an Infected Tooth

So, how do you know if you have an infection in your tooth? Watch for these symptoms closely.

1. You have severe and persistent toothache, especially at night

2. Your teeth are sensitive to hot and cold foods

3. You have swelling and redness around the tooth or gum

4. You notice pus drainage from the tooth or gums

5. You are experiencing fever and/or chills

6. You are having difficulty chewing or speaking

If you two or more of these, then it is a warning sign for an infected tooth or multiple teeth.

If you let the toothache fester and linger, you may see both direct, tangible effects while also risking longer term systemic effects to your health.

Immediate, Tangible Impact from an Infected Tooth

The below are effects you may notice and feel right away:

Severe Pain and Swelling: The infection can inflame surrounding tissues, causing throbbing pain as well as swelling in your face, jaw, and neck.

Fever and Chills: Your body’s immune system responds to the pain leading to fever and chills.

Difficulty Eating: The pain and swelling can make chewing or drinking very challenging,

Difficulty Speaking: The pain and swelling in your tooth may make speaking uncomfortable or even impossible.

Damage to surrounding Teeth and Bone: This infection can spread to nearby teeth and bones, causing further damage and potentially requiring extensive treatment.

Longer Term, Systemic Impact from an Infected Tooth

Apart from the immediate impact, your body is also prone to suffer longer-term damage.

Bacteremia: Bacteria from the infected tooth can enter the bloodstream, leading to bacteremia, a potentially life-threatening condition causing widespread infection.

Endocarditis: The infection can travel to the inner lining of your heart, potentially causing endocarditis, a serious inflammation requiring immediate medical attention.

Respiratory Problems: In rare cases, the infection can spread to the lungs, causing pneumonia or other respiratory complications.

Chronic Diseases: Long-term, chronic oral infections have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even Alzheimer's disease.

What to do Next

Do not ignore your infected tooth. Take prompt action. Schedule an appointment with your dentist at Seattle Oral Care immediately.

In the meanwhile, here are immediate actions you can take to manage the pain:

1. Over-the-counter Pain Relievers

2. Warm Salt Water Rinses: Can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

3. Avoid hot or cold foods and drinks: These can irritate the infected area.

4. Avoid biting on the affected tooth: This can worsen the infection.

Early diagnosis and treatment of your infected tooth are crucial to reducing pain while preventing longer-term, more harmful consequences.