How to Spot the Early Signs of a Dental Infection
Dental infections can become serious quickly if left untreated. At Emergency & Walk-In Dentist Cardiff, we want to help you recognize the early warning signs before the infection spreads. Catching these symptoms early could save your tooth and prevent more complex treatments later.
7 Early Warning Signs of Dental Infection
1. Persistent Tooth Sensitivity
New or worsening sensitivity to:
- Hot foods/drinks (may indicate pulp infection)
- Cold items (could signal nerve irritation)
- Sweet foods (possible cavity reaching dentin)
Don’t ignore sensitivity that lasts more than 3 days – it might require root canal treatment.
2. Gum Changes
Watch for these gum abnormalities:
- Redness or swelling around one tooth
- Shiny, stretched-looking gum tissue
- Tender gums that bleed easily
- Small pimple-like bump on gums (abscess)
These often indicate gum abscess formation.
3. Bad Taste or Breath
An infected tooth often causes:
- Persistent bad taste (salty, metallic, or foul)
- Bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing
- Pus drainage you can taste
4. Tooth Discoloration
Infection inside a tooth may cause:
- Grayish or darker appearance compared to neighbors
- Yellowish spot at gum line (possible abscess)
- New visible cracks where bacteria enter
Discolored teeth might need dental crowns after infection clears.
5. Jaw or Ear Discomfort
Referred pain from dental infection often appears as:
- Dull ache in jawbone near infected tooth
- Ear pain without actual ear infection
- Difficulty opening mouth wide
Suspect a Dental Infection?
Early treatment prevents complications. Our emergency dentists in Cardiff can see you today.
Book Urgent AppointmentDental Infection FAQs
Q: How quickly can a dental infection spread?
A: Some infections worsen within 24-48 hours. See our dental emergencies page if you notice rapid swelling.
Q: Will antibiotics fix a tooth infection?
A> Antibiotics help control spread but usually can’t eliminate the source. Most infections require extraction or root canal.
