Dental Infections – What They Are and How to Handle Them

Got a throbbing tooth or swollen gums? Chances are you're dealing with a dental infection. It's when bacteria get inside your mouth, multiply, and cause pain, swelling, or even fever. You don't need a medical degree to spot it – the signs are usually obvious.

Common Types of Dental Infections

The most frequent one is a tooth abscess. This happens when decay or injury lets germs reach the pulp inside the tooth, creating a pocket of pus. Another common problem is gum infection, also called periodontitis, where the tissue around your teeth becomes inflamed and can pull away from the bone. You might also hear about pericoronitis – that's the infection that forms under a partially erupted wisdom tooth.

All these infections share similar symptoms: sharp or constant pain, swelling, bad taste, and sometimes a fever. If you notice any of these, it's a signal that your mouth needs help fast.

When to See a Dentist & Quick Home Care

You should call your dentist as soon as the pain gets strong, lasts more than a day, or if you see pus or swelling spreading to the cheek. Delaying treatment can let the infection spread to other parts of the body, which is risky.

While you're waiting for an appointment, there are a few things you can do at home. Rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) several times a day – it helps reduce swelling and clears out some bacteria. Over‑the‑counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can ease the ache, but avoid aspirin if you have stomach issues.

Don't try to drill your own tooth or use cotton swabs deep inside the socket; that often makes things worse. If a tooth feels loose or you see a visible pocket of pus, keep it clean and let a professional handle it.

Preventing infections is easier than treating them. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss every night to remove food stuck between teeth, and visit the dentist for regular check‑ups. Cutting down on sugary drinks and snacks also cuts down the fuel bacteria need to grow.

Remember, a dental infection isn't something that will go away by itself. Spotting it early, using simple home steps, and getting professional care quickly can save you pain, money, and serious health problems.

Quick checklist: • Warm salt rinse 2‑3 times daily • Ibuprofen for pain (follow label) • Avoid hot or sugary foods until seen • Call dentist if swelling spreads or fever develops.