A tooth infection is a bacterial infection inside the tooth or surrounding tissues that causes pain, swelling, and serious damage when left untreated. Our emergency dentist treats tooth infections quickly and effectively to stop the spread of bacteria and protect your overall oral health. Treating a tooth infection eliminates harmful bacteria, relieves persistent pain, and keeps your teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.
At Pasadena Dental Office and Orthodontics, our emergency dentist evaluates tooth infections using digital X-rays and intraoral imaging to determine the source and extent of the infection, whether it involves a dental abscess, advanced tooth decay, or bacteria affecting the tooth pulp and surrounding tissues. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options may include antibiotics to control infection, abscess drainage to relieve pressure, root canal therapy to remove infected pulp and preserve the tooth, or extraction if the damage is too severe to repair. Acting quickly helps stop the infection from spreading to nearby teeth, gums, or bone and protects your overall oral health. If you are experiencing symptoms of a tooth infection such as severe pain, swelling, or sensitivity, contact our office today to schedule your appointment and receive prompt treatment.
A tooth infection is a bacterial infection that occurs inside the tooth or in the surrounding tissues. It is a localized collection of bacteria that has taken hold within the dental pulp, the soft inner core of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels, or in the space between the tooth and gum.
Tooth infections often produce noticeable symptoms as pressure and inflammation increase around the affected tooth.
Common symptoms include:
If a dental abscess is left untreated, the mortality rate can increase to as high as 40% of patients develop mediastinitis from a descending tooth infection.
Several dental conditions can allow bacteria to enter the inner structure of a tooth and cause infection.
Common causes include:
Different types of infections can affect the tooth depending on where the bacteria accumulate.
A periapical abscess forms at the tip of the tooth root and usually develops when bacteria spread into the pulp through untreated tooth decay or trauma. This type of infection often causes intense pain and swelling around the affected tooth.
A periodontal abscess occurs in the gums near the root of a tooth. It is often associated with advanced gum disease and may cause swelling, tenderness, and pus formation in the gum tissue.
A gingival abscess develops in the gum tissue itself, usually caused by trapped food particles or foreign objects. Although typically less severe, it can still cause discomfort and swelling.
Tooth infections typically develop in stages if the underlying dental problem is not treated.
Some individuals may be more susceptible to developing dental infections due to lifestyle or health-related factors.
People at higher risk include:
Treatment for a tooth infection depends on the severity of the infection and how much of the tooth has been affected. We will examine the tooth and recommend the most effective treatment to eliminate bacteria and preserve the natural tooth whenever possible.
Root canal treatment is commonly used to treat infections that reach the inner pulp of the tooth. During this procedure, the dentist removes infected tissue, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent bacteria from returning.
If a tooth has been weakened by infection or extensive decay, a dental crown may be placed over the tooth after treatment. The crown strengthens the tooth and restores its normal appearance and function.
If the infection has severely damaged the tooth and it cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary. Removing the tooth helps eliminate the infection and protect nearby teeth and bone from further damage.
When an abscess forms, the dentist may drain the infected area to relieve pressure and remove accumulated pus. This helps reduce pain and allows the surrounding tissues to begin healing.
In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the bacterial infection and prevent it from spreading to surrounding tissues. This treatment may be used in combination with other dental procedures to fully resolve the infection.
You should see an emergency dentist immediately if you experience severe tooth pain, swelling in the face or jaw, fever, or persistent bad taste in your mouth. These symptoms may indicate a serious infection that requires prompt treatment.
Early care can prevent the infection from spreading, reduce pain, and help preserve the natural tooth whenever possible.
Emergency dental appointments are available in Pasadena!
Preventing dental infections starts with maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing dental problems early.
Key prevention steps include:
At Pasadena Dental Office and Orthodontics, our experienced emergency dentists provide fast, compassionate tooth infection treatment near you in Pasadena, offering same-day dental appointments for urgent cases and effective solutions such as abscess drainage, root canal therapy, dental crowns, tooth extraction, and other restorative services. From severe tooth pain and swelling to dental abscesses, gum tenderness, or infection that becomes more serious over time, our team uses advanced digital imaging and precise diagnostics to identify the source of the problem and deliver the right dental treatment. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief and a healthier smile.
A tooth infection can develop gradually over time as tooth decay or damage allows bacteria to reach the inner pulp. In some cases, symptoms may appear suddenly once the infection reaches deeper tissues.
Yes. If left untreated, a tooth infection can spread beyond the tooth and affect surrounding tissues, jawbone, or other areas of the body. Prompt dental care is important to stop the infection from progressing.
Antibiotics can help control bacterial infection, but they usually do not eliminate the source of the infection inside the tooth. Dental treatment, such as a root canal or extraction, is often necessary to fully resolve the problem.
A dental infection often causes throbbing pain, swelling, pressure around the tooth, and sensitivity to temperature. Some patients may also experience bad breath, fever, or facial swelling.
In many cases, yes. Severe pain, swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing may indicate a serious infection that requires immediate dental care. Seeking treatment quickly can prevent complications and relieve discomfort.
