Are you suffering from a tooth nerve infection?
This situation can be very dangerous if not treated on time. Also known as root infection, this condition occurs when bacteria enter into the soft tissues inside your tooth, which leads to inflammation and severe discomfort.
Luckily, there are effective treatment options that can cure the infection.
Today, in this blog, we will learn more about this tooth nerve infection, its symptoms, and treatment options.
Signs of Tooth Nerve Infection
Before proceeding with the treatment options, it is necessary to understand how to identify a tooth nerve infection. Only when you identify the condition you can get the right treatment.
- Extreme Tooth Pain: This type of pain can be constant, or the pain can just come and go repeatedly. When you chew or touch the tooth, the pain can be even more.
- Hot or Cold Sensitivity: If your tooth hurts when you eat or drink something hot or cold, that can be a sign of nerve damage.
- Swelling: Your gums may look red, and the area surrounding the affected tooth can swell.
- Foul Taste: Nerve infection can leave a bad odor in your mouth, so keep an eye out for that.
- Fever: In some cases, the infection can lead to fever as the body tries to fight off the bacteria.
What are the Treatment Options?
When it comes to tooth nerve infection, the main goal is to eliminate the infection completely and recover the tooth, often with the help of an emergency dentist in Metairie.
Here are some of the most common treatment options for a tooth nerve infection:
Root Canal Therapy
One of the most successful treatments for tooth nerve infection.
- Here, the dentist first numbs the infected area and then removes the pulp.
- Once the inside of the mouth is properly cleaned, then the space is filled and sealed to prevent further infection.
Drainage of Abscess
Accumulation of pus means swelling and pain in the area.
- With a small incision, the dentist releases the pus and reduces pressure in the area.
- After the dentist cleans the area, antibiotics are prescribed for smooth recovery.
Medication
Medication sometimes helps when the infection spreads beyond the tooth. This step is done before a root canal procedure.
- A course of antibiotics can be given
- The best way is to follow the instructions.
Tooth Extractions
Tooth extraction is considered to be an extreme step, but it is often necessary. As per NCHS, 91% of US adults have the problem of tooth decay. An extraction is done to ensure the infection does not spread anywhere.
- With the help of anesthesia, the dentist removes the infected tooth
- If the infection spreads anymore, further treatment is required.
At-Home Care During Recovery
Here are simple tips to manage the pain and swelling after getting the treatment at home.
- Rinsing with warm salt water reduces the pain
- Sometimes painkillers also help in lowering the swelling
- The best option is to avoid hard and sticky foods for a speedy recovery.
Treating a tooth nerve infection is important to prevent the infection from spreading to other areas. If you experience any signs, contact your nearest dental professional for a prompt response.
Contact us and schedule your next dental appointment.
