Shooting pain across the jaw signals a dreaded event few people look forward to – a trip to the dentist. As tempting as it can be to ignore the pain, convinced it will go away after some time, such warning signs must be taken seriously.
An abscessed tooth is the result of an infection at the root or between the gum and tooth. Injury to the enamel can create an opening through which bacterial infections can develop causing tooth decay. Pockets of pus develop, creating the abscess, and cause painful symptoms and, untreated, life-threatening complications.
Ignoring the warning signs is dangerous. Untreated, the abscessed tooth could lead to blood infection, the spread of infection to the jaw bone, and possible inflammation of the heart, according to Medline Plus. Symptoms of an abscessed tooth range in severity, but should always be taken seriously.
Toothache
Continuous toothache pain can signal an abscessed tooth and is described as gnawing, shooting, or throbbing pain, according to Medline Plus. Severe toothaches can be caused by a few different issues, but one of the main symptoms of an abscessed tooth is when there is no lowering of pain levels.
Temperature Sensitivity
The tooth may become extremely sensitive to hot and cold temperatures in food and drink, according to Health Direct. Sensitivity comes from cracks and chips in the enamel, stimulating the nerve endings to extreme temperatures.
Fever
Fevers can accompany an abscessed tooth as the body tries to fight off the infection, according to Mayo Clinic. It is important to have an abscessed tooth treated before the infection can spread to the jaw or further into the body.
Swelling
Inflammation of the face and/or cheek can occur around the area as the infection progresses, according to The Hearty Soul. Red and sore gums may accompany the swelling, as well as general discomfort around the affected tooth. Swollen upper or lower jaws can suggest a serious infection.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
While fighting the infection, the lymph nodes located under the jaw or in the neck can become tender and swollen, according to Mayo Clinic. The lymph nodes swell as they prevent the infection from reaching other areas of the body, trapping the bacteria.
Decline in Pain
Sometimes, an abscess will rupture, causing a sudden rush of foul smelling and tasting fluid in the mouth, according to The Hearty Soul. Another cause of decrease in pain is when the bacteria reaches and kills the pulp inside the chamber of the tooth. While the pain diminishes, the infection is still very active and spreading throughout the area.
Difficulty Swallowing
In extremely serious cases, the infection of the abscessed tooth leads to difficulties in swallowing and sometimes difficulty breathing, according to Mayo Clinic. In these cases, patients should proceed immediately to the emergency room as the infection is likely to have spread deeper into the jaw area.
Prevention
Once an abscessed tooth occurs, the only way to solve the issue generally includes surgery, according to Health Direct. Proper dental hygiene is the best method of preventing infection by brushing the teeth twice a day and flossing. It is recommended not to consume sugary drinks or food in abundance and for people to visit their dentist routinely.
See your doctor if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or believe you may have an abscessed tooth. In cases of extreme pain, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the jaw area, visit the emergency room and have a professional diagnose the problem.
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Sources: [American Association of Endodontists, Delta Dental, Health Direct, Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic, MedlinePlus, The Hearty Soul]
