Oral infections are caused by harmful germs and bacteria, and they can develop anywhere in or around the mouth. Like many other diseases, they require immediate care and treatment, whether at home or by a professional, so they don’t advance and cause further harm. Follow these tips from Center City Emergency Dentist, one of Philadelphia’s top emergency dental clinics, to spot the early signs of an oral infection.
What are Some Common Oral Infections?
Cavities are probably the most common oral disease, with 90 percent of adults and 42 percent of children developing cavities in their life, according to the CDC and the NIDCR respectively. Other common oral infections include:
- Gingivitis: Bacteria infects the gums. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease.
- Periodontal disease: Bacteria infects the gums. Periodontal disease is the later stage of gum disease.
- Endodontic disease: Bacteria infects the pulp of the tooth.
- Cold sores: The herpes simplex virus causes painful blisters to develop around the mouth, not to be confused with canker sores.
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease: The coxsackievirus causes painful sores to develop in the mouth, as well as rashes on the hands and feet. This virus is highly contagious.
What are the Symptoms?
Different oral infections can have different symptoms, but the most common ones are:
- Recurring bad breath
- Bleeding or sore gums
- Tooth, gum, or jaw pain
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Swelling of the gums, jaw, or lymph nodes
- Loose teeth
- Sores in the mouth, gums, or lips
How Can I Prevent Future Oral Infections?
It all starts with good oral hygiene!
Introducing healthy habits into your oral care routine can make all the difference in your health and help prevent oral infections as well as sepsis, a life-threatening medical condition caused by the body’s overwhelming reaction to an infection. Follow these guidelines:
- Brush and floss at least twice a day, every day.
- Schedule routine teeth cleanings and exams every six months.
- Be careful of brushing teeth too vigorously; this can strip down the enamel of the tooth and push back the gums, increasing your risk of infection.
- Make sure you eat a healthy diet with minimal sugar.
- Don’t smoke.
While most oral infections can be prevented with a healthy oral routine, that may not always be the case. If you’re not sure if you have an oral infection, don’t take any chances and call Center City Emergency Dentist to schedule an emergency dental service as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more difficult and painful it will become to treat your infection, so time is of the essence.
Contact us here to schedule an appointment at our Philadelphia office.
