Should You Seek Emergency Dental Care for a Tooth Abscess?

Tooth infections are not just a matter of discomfort; they can escalate into serious health issues if left untreated. A tooth abscess, a form of tooth infection, is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection and can lead to severe tooth pain. Knowing when to seek emergency dental care for a tooth abscess is crucial. Dr. Patrick V. Nicosia and his dental team at Patrick V. Nicosia D.D.S., M.S., Inc. specialize in providing emergency dental care in Houston, TX. They understand the inconvenience and pain caused by dental trauma and are equipped to handle various dental emergencies, ensuring quick relief and recovery.

Causes of a tooth abscess

A tooth abscess occurs due to bacterial infection. Certain conditions allow bacteria to penetrate the dental pulp, leading to infection. If not addressed promptly, the infection can spread, forming an abscess. Causes of a tooth abscess stem from:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• A cracked tooth

Symptoms of a tooth infection

Detecting the early signs of a tooth infection can help prevent the progression to a more severe abscess. Some of the common indicators that can signify a tooth infection and should be managed with immediate medical attention include:

• Throbbing tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Swelling in the face or cheek
• Tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck
• Fever
• Foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth and pain relief if the abscess ruptures

Harmful effects of an untreated tooth abscess

Harmful effects underscore the importance of seeking emergency dental care for a tooth abscess. Neglecting a tooth abscess can lead to serious complications, including:

• Spread of the infection to the jaw, neck, or brain
• Sepsis, a life-threatening infection that spreads throughout your body
• Loss of the affected tooth
• Damage to surrounding teeth and bone

When to seek emergency dental care for a tooth abscess

The rule of thumb is to seek immediate dental emergency care when you experience persistent, severe tooth pain, especially if accompanied by fever and facial swelling. These are signs of a spreading infection. Dr. Nicosia and his team in Houston, TX are adept at handling such dental emergencies. They focus on reducing oral discomfort, detecting injuries, and rehabilitating the function and aesthetics of your teeth.

Get prompt attention from Dr. Patrick V. Nicosia

A tooth abscess is a dental emergency that requires prompt attention. The risks associated with an untreated tooth abscess are too significant to ignore. If you're experiencing symptoms of a tooth infection, it's imperative to seek emergency dental care right away.

At Patrick V. Nicosia D.D.S., M.S., Inc., Dr. Patrick V. Nicosia and his team are committed to providing the highest standard of emergency dental care in Houston, TX. They are dedicated to alleviating your oral pain, identifying any dental injuries, and restoring the functionality, appearance, and overall health of your teeth as quickly as possible. Don't let tooth pain and infection compromise your oral and overall health. Contact Dr. Nicosia's office today for expert emergency dental care.