When you go to the dentist, you hope your dental team tells you that your oral health is magnificent and that your oral hygiene habits are excellent. However, that may not always be the case, and you could be experiencing an oral infection of some sort. Fortunately, the dental experts at Edward St Dental are here to help you with any of your dental needs.
We offer dental services to all ages, and we hope to treat you and your entire family while building a relationship of trust. Our modern dental practice offers a wide range of services to help you achieve your best smile.
What Are the Symptoms of an Oral Infection?
It’s important to know what to look for regarding the symptoms of an oral infection. The primary symptoms of an oral infection include the following:
- Pain in your jaw, gums or teeth
- Sore or bleeding gums
- Swelling of your face, jaw or lymph nodes
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Tooth sensitivity, either too hot or cold
- Sores on your tongue, lips or gums
Recognising an Oral Infection
There are several different oral infections that you can experience, and your dental professionals in Brisbane can help. If you think you are suffering from any of the following oral conditions, please feel free to call us:
Dental Caries – This type of infection, also known as tooth decay or dental cavities, is extremely common. Caused by bacteria known as streptococcus mutans, dental caries can lead to tooth loss in both children and adults. Dental caries often cause tooth pain, sensitivity or a discoloured tooth, so watch for these signs.
Tooth Abscess – If you get an infection around one of your teeth, and as a result, pus begins to form in that area, you have an abscessed tooth. If you don’t seek treatment quickly, the infection could spread to your jawbone and other teeth, causing serious issues. The symptoms of a tooth abscess are tooth pain, swelling, bad breath and fever.
Gingivitis – This type of oral infection is also known as early gum disease. When bacteria are allowed to remain in your mouth and settle into your gumline, certain toxins are created. These toxins will cause your gums to become swollen and inflamed. If you don’t seek adequate treatment for gingivitis, it can lead to periodontal disease.
Periodontal Disease – If gingivitis goes untreated and spreads below your gum line, your bones and tissues can be affected, causing what is known as periodontal disease. If periodontal disease isn’t dealt with quickly, it can lead to tooth loss and bone deterioration, so it’s essential to call your dental professional if you are experiencing red, swollen or tender gums, pain while chewing, persistent bad breath, loose or sensitive teeth or gum recession.
Thrush – Another oral infection that you may experience involves a fungus that can occur as a result of certain medical treatments or medications. You may contract thrush if you have taken antibiotics or undergone chemotherapy or radiation. The symptoms of thrush include a white plaque that can be seen on your tongue, palate or the inside of your cheeks.
Canker Sores – If you experience a lesion or a sore on your gums or elsewhere in your mouth, you may have a canker sore. Mostly prevalent in children and teens, canker sores may be caused by hormones, stress or immune issues and can take up to two weeks to heal.
Oral Herpes – Between 50 and 80 per cent of people carry the oral herpes infection in their body, which can cause blisters or ulcers on your tongue and gums. You may experience flu-like symptoms or no symptoms with oral herpes, but once you are infected, the virus stays in your body for the rest of your life. Oral herpes outbreaks can last up to two weeks.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease – This oral infection is typically found in toddlers and is caused by a virus in your body. If your child experiences a fever, sore throat or blisters on their tongue and cheek or their hands and feet, you should contact your dentist or doctor for advice. Hand, foot and mouth disease is easily treated and lasts only a few days.
How Can You Avoid Oral Infections?
It’s essential that you maintain a daily oral health care regimen to avoid oral infections. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day, floss your teeth at least once a day and visit your dental professional for regular check-ups. Good oral hygiene can prevent some oral infections, which will help you keep your smile beautiful for your entire life.
Would You Like More Information About Oral Health in Brisbane, QLD?
If you want to learn more about achieving optimal oral health, the dental team at Edward St Dental would love to hear from you. We want you to have a healthy mouth and the beautiful smile you desire, so we welcome your call on (07) 3221 5855 for more information or to book an appointment with our dental clinic.
