What Are The Symptoms Of A Mouth Infection?

What Are The Symptoms Of A Mouth Infection?

Apr 01, 2022

Like most parts of your body, your mouth can develop infections and illnesses. While some infections are minor, some can be serious, and if not treated promptly, they can cause further oral and overall complications. For instance, an abscess is an infection that develops in the gums or teeth roots. When not addressed in time, the infection can spread to other parts of your body.

Since you might not diagnose how severe your condition is, it’s essential to seek proper treatment from a doctor near you or contact our dentist in West San Jose. Let’s look at the common signs of mouth infections and how to treat them to restore your oral health.

Explain the Common Signs of Mouth Infections

If you have the following symptoms, you might have an infection:

  • Bleeding and sore gums 

Commonly, bleeding, tender, and sore gums are signs of gum disease. Generally, you can prevent gum disease with proper dental care and habits. When you don’t brush and floss properly, plaque and bacteria build up in the mouth, causing inflammation of the gums. Individuals with underlying issues such as diabetes have a higher risk of developing gum infection.

  • Bad breath or Halitosis 

While bad breath can result from simple things such as poor dental hygiene, smoking, or consuming certain items, sometimes it could be a sign of a severe issue. Commonly, bad breath is associated with dental abscesses and periodontal disease. Beyond your mouth, bad breath can be a sign of an underlying condition such as sinus infection, liver disease, kidney disease, chronic lung infection, diabetes, and gastrointestinal problems.

  • Mouth and jaw pain 

Pain in your jaw or mouth could indicate several issues. For instance, it could show signs of stress or sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. In some cases, it could mean you’re having a heart attack. Poor bite, teeth overcrowding, and bruxism can also cause jaw pain and infections. When you visit our dentist in Mountain view, they will help you treat the underlying condition and prevent further complications.

  • Loose teeth or tooth loss 

If your tooth is loose or has fallen out unexpectedly, it could indicate severe tooth decay or gum disease. It can show an early sign of osteoporosis, a condition that deteriorates and weakens your bones. If not treated, these infections can spread to the surrounding gums, teeth, bones, and other parts of your body. These conditions also worsen or increase your risk of developing diabetes and other systematic diseases.

  • Mouth sores, lumps, or patches 

Unusual sores and lumps in your mouth indicate fungal infections and dental abscesses. In worse cases, they could be an early sign of oral cancer. Oral cancer isn’t something you can try to diagnose or treat at home. Be sure to see a doctor or dentist right away if you notice signs.

Explains the Methods to Get Rid of Mouth Infections

Generally, you shouldn’t try to diagnose and treat mouth infections. A simple symptom such as a sore could indicate a severe condition such as oral cancer, which requires immediate treatment. Ignoring such signs could worsen your condition, causing severe and life-threatening symptoms.

You should get professional help when you have a mouth infection to be sure and safe. The dentist or doctor will review your medical history and perform the necessary tests such as x-rays, blood tests, and biopsies to check for abnormalities. After diagnosing the underlying condition, they suggest effective treatments to resolve the issue.

Standard treatment options include:
● Antibiotics for bacterial infections
● Avoiding habits and substances that cause mouth sores
● Topical treatments include corticosteroids, protective coatings, anesthetics, and burning with chemicals and lasers.
● Practicing gentle brushing with a soft-bristled brush
● Gum surgery and bone grafting
● Using salt-water rinses
● Good oral hygiene and habits

Final Verdict

In general, you can prevent most mouth infections with good at-home dental hygiene and habits, along with regular dental exams. Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes is also beneficial for your oral health. For more information about mouth infections and dental hygiene in West San Jose, contact Neeshat S. Khan.

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