“It’s just sore, it will go away.”
“I’m too busy right now, I’ll take my child to the dentist later.”
“A little sensitivity is no big deal.”
There has been a lot of talk about viral infections lately. In this message, we concentrate on oral infections.
There are many causes of oral infections. In children, they are usually caused by tooth decay.
The teeth become sensitive to cold drinks. A tooth develops a dull ache. The child may have difficulty describing where the pain is coming from.
A sore on the gums doesn’t heal. An injured tooth darkens. Pain commences in the lower sinus area.
This is definitely not one of the scenarios where the “ignore it and it will go away” mentality is wise.
The dangers of ignoring oral infections
There are perilous consequences of postponing treatment. Oral infections can destroy teeth, gums, and jawbone and even lead to life-threatening sepsis.
In centuries past, tooth decay-related infection was a leading cause of death.
Possible symptoms of an oral infection
An oral infection doesn’t always bring about pain. Bad breath, fever, swelling in the gums, glands, or jaw, or a strange taste in the mouth can indicate the presence of an infection.
Treat oral infections early
If an infection is caught and treated early, there may be no additional problems. However, usually, the infection is the result of a dental problem that needs to be treated. If the infection is caused by tooth decay, the decay will have to be removed and the tooth filled. If the decay has penetrated the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary.
The infection may be stemming from a pocket of undrained pus called an abscess. Pus is a by-product of the immune system’s efforts to combat infection and consists of dead white blood cells.
Mouth sores have various causes including an infection or virus. White patches in the mouth can indicate thrush (an oral yeast infection). All of these conditions can be addressed—but you need to see your dentist.
Contact Boulder County Smiles:
303-665-5335
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026
