What causes a dental infection? When a tooth is broken or develops decay that isn’t treated in a timely manner, then a serious complication can develop. Without treatment, an infected or abscessed tooth can cause discomfort and even become lost. In order to maintain a whole and healthy smile, you may require treatment with root canal therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions About What Causes Dental Infection
Question: How does an infection develop?
Answer: Our teeth are composed of several different layers. The innermost layer is a bundle of living tissue known as the pulp. The pulp keeps the tooth alive and healthy. When a cavity forms the decay will continue to spread without treatment. Eventually, the bacteria can reach the pulp, causing an infection to form.
Question: How do I know if I have one?
Answer: Initially you may notice a persistent toothache and tooth sensitivity. However, the symptoms may soon progress into serious discomfort when you chew or bite down. Other warning signs include fever, swelling near the tooth, and a bad tasting discharge. We urge you not to ignore these symptoms should you experience them.
Question: Will I need a root canal?
Answer: In most cases, we can treat the issue with a root canal. The treatment involves opening the tooth and removing the infected tissue. The doctor then cleans the interior of the tooth and fills the tooth with a restorative material known as gutta percha. A restoration is then placed over the tooth to ensure it looks natural and blends with the smile.
Question: What happens if the tooth requires extraction?
Answer: However, if you don’t seek treatment and the infection continues to progress the tooth can die. At this stage, the tooth must be removed to prevent the surrounding teeth from becoming infected. After an extraction the doctor may suggest possible replacement options, such as a dental implant.
