Is Your Tooth Infected? 5 Warning Signs to Watch For
Sep 4, 2025
Is My Tooth Infected? 5 Warning Signs You Can't Afford to Ignore
A minor toothache can be easy to dismiss, but a severe, persistent pain is often your body's alarm bell signaling a deeper problem. A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, occurs when bacteria invade the inner pulp of your tooth. This is a serious condition that will not get better on its own and requires immediate professional attention.
Ignoring the signs of an infected tooth can lead to more severe pain and even a life-threatening health situation. The team at Veda Family Dentistry wants you to be informed and safe. Here are five key warning signs that indicate you should call a dentist right away.
1. The Pain is Severe, Persistent, and Throbbing
This isn't a dull ache; it's a severe, often throbbing pain that is difficult to ignore. It may be strong enough to wake you up at night and may not respond to over-the-counter pain relievers. The pain can sometimes radiate to your jaw, ear, or neck.
2. Extreme Sensitivity That Lingers
While many people have sensitive teeth, a key sign of infection is sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers for 30 seconds or more after the hot or cold source is gone. This indicates that the nerve inside the tooth is inflamed or dying.
3. Pain When Chewing or Applying Pressure
If it's painful to bite down or even touch a specific tooth, it's a strong sign that the ligaments and bone around the root are inflamed due to infection. The pressure from chewing aggravates the already tender area.
4. Swelling in Your Gums, Face, or Jaw
Swelling is a clear sign that the infection is active and may be spreading. You might notice a swollen area on your gums near the painful tooth, or you may see visible swelling on the outside of your cheek or jaw.
5. A Pimple-like Bump on Your Gums (Abscess)
This small, often painful bump is called a fistula, and it's a tunnel that the infection has created to drain pus. While it might temporarily relieve pressure, it is a definitive sign of an active and serious infection that needs to be treated at its source.
Why You Must Never Ignore These Signs: A Tooth Infection is a Health Risk
A tooth infection is not like a common cold; your body cannot fight it off on its own. The infection is trapped inside your tooth and jaw. If left untreated, the bacteria can spread to your jawbone, your bloodstream, and other parts of your body, leading to a systemic and potentially life-threatening condition.
CRITICAL WARNING: If your facial swelling is accompanied by a high fever, difficulty breathing, or trouble swallowing, this is a medical emergency. Go to the nearest hospital emergency room immediately.
Don't Wait. Get a Professional Diagnosis Immediately.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, the time to act is now. The compassionate and expert team at Veda Family Dentistry is equipped to handle dental emergencies. We will swiftly diagnose the source of your pain, provide immediate relief, and create a plan to save your tooth with treatments like root canal therapy.
Your health is too important to risk. Contact our West New York, NJ office right away for an urgent appointment.
For a Dental Emergency, Call Us Now: (201) 559-0807
