Tooth Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Methods

Tooth inflammation, a common dental issue, affects many people, often without their knowledge. It can cause an unpleasant taste in the mouth in the morning or a sharp sensitivity to cold drinks.

This post gathers all you need to know about tooth inflammation to help recognize symptoms and start appropriate treatment. We'll explore how tooth inflammation develops, its symptoms, and treatment options.

What is Tooth Inflammation?

Tooth inflammation refers to the inflammation of tissues inside the tooth, often accompanied by severe pain and discomfort.

The inside of a tooth contains the dental pulp, or pulp, which is filled with tiny nerves and blood vessels. The inflammation of this area is what we refer to as tooth inflammation.

Causes of Tooth Inflammation

Common causes of pulp inflammation include tooth decay, gum disease, or external trauma. When the enamel weakens and bacteria penetrate the interior of the tooth, it becomes decayed, and untreated decay can inflame the pulp. Gum diseases, often resulting from poor oral hygiene, can also cause tooth inflammation. Nighttime teeth grinding, constant clenching, overloading of the tooth (like with a high filling), or physical damage from an external force can also lead to tooth inflammation.

Symptoms of Tooth Inflammation

Symptoms of tooth inflammation can vary and often depend on the severity of the inflammation. Common symptoms include:

• Constant or intermittent toothache, especially in the early stages

• Sensitivity to hot and cold (in foods and drinks)

• Throbbing pain that doesn't subside with painkillers (in severe cases)

• Sensitivity to pressure around the tooth

• Redness and swelling of the gums

• Swollen face

• Headaches or migraines can also be a side effect of an inflamed tooth

Symptoms may not appear all at once. In the initial stages, symptoms are milder and periodic. However, without appropriate treatment, symptoms can intensify and lead to serious complications.

Preventing Tooth Inflammation

To prevent tooth inflammation, maintaining thorough oral hygiene is crucial, which includes brushing twice daily, using dental floss, and employing mouthwash.

Regular dental check-ups are also essential, as early detection and immediate treatment of tooth inflammation can prevent more serious issues.

If you notice any symptoms, such as pain, unpleasant breath or taste, or sensitivity, it is advisable to visit a dentist as soon as possible. Regular dental exams, possibly including fillings or professional cleanings, can help with early detection and treatment of potential issues.

Treating Tooth Inflammation

Home Remedies vs. Medical Intervention

Home remedies can provide temporary relief and alleviate symptoms until a dental appointment. These methods include saltwater rinses, cold compresses, or the use of pain relievers.

However, real treatment of the inflammation and symptom elimination requires dental care. Depending on the severity, treatment for pulpitis might include cleaning and filling the tooth, with root canal treatment as a final solution.

Use of Anti-inflammatory Medications and Painkillers

For an inflamed tooth, especially when severe pain is present, anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers can help alleviate symptoms. While these drugs can temporarily reduce pain and swelling, they are not substitutes for professional dental treatment. Medication should only be used according to dental instructions.

Root Canal Treatment and Its Process

Root canal treatment is the definitive solution for treating an inflamed tooth. During the procedure, the inflamed tissues inside the tooth are removed, and the tooth is cleaned and sealed.

Root canal treatment involves several steps: diagnosis through X-ray and physical examination (cold spray sensitivity, tapping), opening the tooth, removing the inflamed pulp, disinfecting the root canals, and finally, sealing the tooth with temporary or permanent filling.

The process may involve mild discomfort, but symptoms generally subside within a few weeks.

Complications of Tooth Inflammation

Untreated tooth inflammation can lead to severe complications. The inflammation can spread to the root, causing root inflammation. In serious cases, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues, causing facial swelling, and even to the bones. If the inflamed tooth remains untreated, the infection can enter the bloodstream, causing sepsis, a life-threatening condition.

Timely dental care and treatment of an inflamed tooth are crucial to prevent serious health consequences.

Diagnosing an Inflamed Tooth

During a dental examination, various methods are available to accurately determine the source and severity of the problem. While symptoms like pain and swelling are important indicators, home diagnosis is never recommended. It's essential that a professional conduct the examinations and make the diagnosis.

Preserve Your Dental Health! Don't let tooth pain complicate your daily life! If you experience symptoms of tooth inflammation, don't hesitate: consult our experts with confidence!

Call Fehérvári Dental directly at +36 1 445 0011 to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Take care of your dental health today!