A tooth infection can be a very painful and uncomfortable experience, which may lead to further complications if you don’t get it looked at.
If bacteria enters the mouth, this can spread, and cause the teeth and gums to become infected. This could form a dental abscess. An abscess can form on the inside of the tooth, or on the surrounding gum.
An abscess may develop because of gum disease, untreated tooth decay, or damage to the tooth.
A tooth infection can also develop due to poor oral hygiene, inadequate dental care, dry mouth, or consuming a high intake of sugar.
What are the signs of tooth infection?
- Severe pain in the teeth or gums, which doesn’t go away with painkillers.
- Tooth pain that spreads to your ear, jaw and neck on the same side as the affected tooth or gum
- Tooth pain which worsens when chewing, drinking, or lying down.
- Stiff neck
- Swelling and redness of your gums, jaw and face.
- Sensitivity to very hot or very cold food and drinks.
- High temperature.
- Bad or bitter taste in the mouth or foul-smelling breath.
- Increased heart rate.
- General feeling of discomfort
If your tooth infection spreads to other areas of your body, this can be dangerous.
What are signs that a tooth infection has spread to the body?
You should visit A&E as soon as possible you also have these symptoms:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Swollen neck glands
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Blurry vision
If you are worried you have a tooth or gum infection you need to visit your dentist. GPs are not responsible for treating dental problems as we do not have the appropriate training. You should see a dentist as soon as possible, as they are highly trained and equipped to deal with tooth problems and dental emergences.
Please contact your dentist directly for an appointment.
If you do not have a dentist please click here for information on how to find one.
If you can’t get an emergency dentist appointment in time, then we would urge you to seek advice from the NHS 111 service, who will ask you about your symptoms and then refer you to the most appropriate service.
Please click here for more infection on toothache