If you have ever had an infected tooth, known as a dental abscess, then you know how unpleasant its symptoms can be. If not recognized and treated promptly, the infection from the abscessed tooth can spread to other parts of your body. Here are some ways your family dentist in Wheaton, IL can diagnose and treat your dental abscess so that you can regain optimal oral health.
Diagnosing Dental Infections
Prior to performing an examination, your dentist will ask you to describe your symptoms. Dental abscesses often cause throbbing tooth pain, inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the affected tooth, purulent drainage, and a bad taste in your mouth. Fever, swollen glands, and jaw pain can also accompany a dental abscess. X-rays and a comprehensive oral examination will also be performed. The bitewing x-rays can identify the exact location of the abscess inside the pulp, while the oral examination can identify areas of inflammation, decay, and infection.
Treating Dental Infections
Your family dentist in Wheaton, IL, will clean out the infectious material from your tooth and then flush out the area with water. Because dental abscesses are caused by bacteria, your dentist may prescribe a course of oral antibiotics. It is important that you complete your entire course of antibiotics to ensure that the infection resolves completely. If you experience an upset stomach or other side effects from your antibiotics, let your dentist know so that they can recommend interventions such as taking over-the-counter probiotics or eating yogurt.
If you have any of the above symptoms of an infected tooth and want to make an appointment, call Dupage Dental Smiles or stop by their website.
