404-633-1853If bacteria slips inside the tooth through a crack or decay, it can cause infection to the pulp tissue. This infection can spread to the root of the tooth where a pus-pocket (the abscess) is created. Abscessed teeth need to be treated by your dentist to prevent the infection from spreading to the rest of the body. But how can you tell if you have an abscessed tooth? Here are a few of the symptoms.
- Sometimes an abscessed tooth is referred to as a toothache because that is one of the most common symptoms. If you have a severe, continuous toothache, you may have an abscessed tooth.
- Tooth sensitivity is another symptom. This sensitivity is especially prevalent with hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Red and swollen gums can indicate abscess in the tooth root, or even an abscess that has developed in the neighboring gum (called a periodontal abscess).
- Pain when biting down on your teeth, such as when you are chewing, is another common symptom.
- A bad taste in the mouth or bad breath could indicate that the abscess has ruptured, which is often followed by temporary relief. However, you will still need treatment because the bacteria and infection remain in your tooth.
- Swelling of the face, cheeks, or even the lymph nodes in your neck can indicate you have an abscessed tooth.
- The infection of abscess may also cause a fever.