tooth infection and abscess treatment Midvale, UT

Tooth Infection & Abscess Treatment in Midvale, UT

A tooth infection occurs when bacteria reach the inner pulp of a tooth or the surrounding gums, often forming a pocket of pus called an abscess. Tooth infections can cause severe pain and swelling and will not go away without treatment. At Focus Dental Group, we treat dental infections promptly to relieve pain, stop the spread of bacteria, and save your tooth whenever possible.

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What Causes a Tooth Infection?

Signs of a Tooth Infection

  • Severe, throbbing tooth pain that may spread to the jaw, ear, or neck
  • Swelling in the face, cheek, or gums
  • Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Pain when chewing
  • A pimple-like bump on the gums
  • A bad taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath
  • Fever or swollen lymph nodes

A tooth infection is a dental emergency. Call us right away for emergency dental care. If swelling affects your breathing or swallowing, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

How We Treat Tooth Infections

Treatment begins with an exam and X-rays to locate the infection. Depending on the cause, we may recommend:

  • Root canal treatment to remove infected pulp and save the tooth
  • Draining the abscess to relieve pressure and pain
  • Antibiotics when needed to help control the infection
  • Deep cleaning or laser gum treatment with our WaterLase iPlus for gum infections
  • Extraction of a non-restorable tooth, followed by a dental implant or bridge

After a root canal, a crown is often placed to protect the tooth. Sedation options are available if you feel anxious about treatment.

Preventing Tooth Infections

Treat cavities early, brush twice daily, floss every day, wear a mouthguard for sports, and keep up with regular checkups and cleanings so problems are caught before infection sets in.

Learn more about the dental conditions we treat, or call Focus Dental Group at (801) 255-7101 to schedule an appointment at 6770 S 900 E, Suite 301, Midvale, UT 84047.

Tooth Infection FAQs

Can a tooth infection go away on its own?

No. A tooth infection requires professional treatment, such as a root canal, drainage, or extraction.

Is a tooth abscess an emergency?

Yes. An abscess can spread to other areas of the body, so it should be treated as soon as possible.

Will antibiotics cure a tooth infection?

Antibiotics may help control an infection, but the source of the infection must be treated to resolve it.

How is a tooth infection treated?

Most infected teeth are treated with a root canal. Severe cases may require drainage or extraction.

What are the signs a tooth infection is spreading?

Fever, facial swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty breathing or swallowing are warning signs that require immediate care.

Can I save a tooth with an abscess?

In many cases, yes. Root canal treatment can remove the infection and save the natural tooth.

How can I prevent a tooth infection?

Treat cavities early, brush and floss daily, and keep up with regular dental checkups.