Know when it’s more than just a toothache.
Tooth pain is never fun — but sometimes, it’s a sign of something more serious: a dental infection.
Dental infections happen when bacteria enter the tooth or surrounding tissues, often through a cavity, crack, or untreated gum disease. If not treated promptly, they can spread to other areas of the body, making early detection and treatment critical.
Here’s how to recognize the signs of a dental infection — and when to contact your dentist.
🚨 Common Signs of a Dental Infection
- 😖 Persistent or Throbbing Tooth Pain
- The pain may come and go, or be constant
- It might radiate to your jaw, ear, or neck
- Often worsens when lying down, chewing, or touching the area
- 😷 Swelling in the Gums, Face, or Jaw
- A visible lump or puffiness in the face or along the gumline
- May feel warm or tender to the touch
- Swelling that spreads can be a sign the infection is worsening
- 🔴 Red or Bleeding Gums
- Inflamed, red, or bleeding gums — especially in one area — can indicate infection or an abscess
- 🦠 Pus or Discharge
- You may notice a bad taste in your mouth or visible pus near the tooth or gum
- This is a sign of an abscess (a pocket of infection)
- 🦷 Tooth Sensitivity or Discolouration
- A previously normal tooth may become extremely sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure
- Infected teeth may darken or appear grey
- 🤒 Fever or Feeling Unwell
- A fever, chills, or fatigue can occur when the infection starts to spread to the body
- This requires urgent care — don’t wait
- 💬 Swollen Lymph Nodes
- You may feel tender, swollen glands under your jaw or in your neck
⚠️ When to Call Your Dentist
If you notice any of the symptoms above — especially pain, swelling, or fever — call your dental clinic as soon as possible.
Dental infections do not go away on their own, and early treatment can prevent the need for more invasive procedures.
Your dentist may recommend:
- A root canal to remove the infected tissue
- Antibiotics (in cases where the infection has spread)
- Drainage of an abscess
- In severe cases, a tooth extraction may be needed
🛡 How to Prevent Dental Infections
The best defence is prevention. Here’s how to protect your smile:
- Brush twice a day and floss daily
- Don’t ignore cavities or cracked teeth — treat them early
- Get regular checkups and cleanings (every 6 months)
- Manage gum disease with your dental team’s help
- Avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects
Final Thoughts
A dental infection is more than just a sore tooth — it’s a medical concern that needs prompt attention. Recognizing the signs early can help you avoid serious complications and get the relief you need, fast.
Experiencing symptoms of a possible infection? Don’t wait. Contact our clinic today — we’ll assess the problem and get you the care you need to feel better, safely and quickly.