An infected tooth may be marked by sharp and acute pain. Tooth pain caused by infection may also be throbbing and sustained. If you experience either of these problems for longer than one or two days, it is important to contact Hayward family dentist Dr. Gary Fong for an examination. When caught early on, tooth infection can often easily be treated. When treatment is delayed, tooth loss and other serious issues may occur.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain, please contact Gary G. Fong, DDS online or call our Bay Area office at 510-582-8727 to schedule an examination right away.
Infected Tooth Symptoms
In addition to toothache and pain, symptoms of a tooth infection may include:
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Dental abscess
- Swelling or reddening of the gum around a specific tooth
- Tooth discoloration or darkening
Because tooth infection may share some of the symptoms of gum disease, it is not uncommon to confuse the two. However, both gum disease and tooth infection that have begun to show visible signs should be brought to the attention of Dr. Fong to ensure proper treatment.
Treating Tooth Infection
A tooth infection is most commonly treated with root canal therapy. This procedure involves making a small hole in the tooth to remove debris, bacteria, and infected pulp. Once fully removed, antibiotics may be injected into the tooth to fully remove infection. Following treatment, the tooth will be sealed and covered with a dental crown to protect it against future damage.
Severe tooth infection may require an oral surgeon or endodontist for proper treatment. When this is the case, Dr. Fong can provide you with a reference to a Bay Area specialist who can complete your treatment. This is determined on a case-by-case basis and will be discussed as necessary during your appointment.
To schedule your examination with Dr. Fong, please call 510-582-8727 today. We welcome patients from the Bay Area, Castro Valley, and all surrounding California communities at our Hayward family dentistry practice.
