A dental abscess can cause pain and may even lead to the loss of your tooth without prompt treatment. Fortunately, root canal therapy is offered by your Miami, FL, dentists, Drs. Richard Romay and Martha Barrera of Design a Smile can save your tooth and protect your health. The dentists serve Coral Gables, Coral Terrace, and Kendall, FL, from their Miami offices.
How to tell if you have a dental abscess
Pain is a common symptom if you have an abscess. Your pain may worsen when you chew or eat hot, cold, or sugary foods. Other signs and symptoms of a dental abscess can include fever, swollen lymph nodes, facial swelling, pus or a bump on your gum, and red, swollen gum.
Why abscesses are dangerous
Dental abscesses are caused by a bacterial infection in your tooth pulp. Unfortunately, the bacteria don't always stay in your tooth. If you don't receive treatment for your abscess, bacteria can enter your bloodstream and travel throughout your body. Abscesses can:
- Affect Your Sinuses: The roots of your upper molars are very close to your sinuses. If you have an abscess, the infection can spread to your sinuses causing a sinus infection.
- Cause Heart, Brain, or Lung Issues: Without treatment for your abscess, you may be more likely to develop heart disease, pneumonia, or stroke. A dental abscess can even increase your risk of death.
- Lead to Tooth Loss: If the bacteria invade the bones that hold your teeth in place, the bone will soon die. If this happens, you'll lose your tooth.
- Trigger Breathing Problems: The infection may cause swelling in tissues in the bottom of your mouth. The tissues may become so swollen that they block your airway, making it hard to breathe.
How a root canal can help you avoid the dangers of a dental abscess
During a root canal visit to the Miami, FL, dental office, your dentist removes your infected pulp, cleans your tooth, and adds a filling to seal and restores your tooth. You'll also receive a prescription for antibiotics that will kill the bacteria. After your root canal, your tooth will function normally, although you may need a dental crown to strengthen it.
Do you have any dental abscess symptoms? If you live in the Coral Gables, Coral Terrace, Kendall, or Miami, FL, areas, make an appointment with Design a Smile. During your visit to one of the Miami offices, Dr. Romay and Dr. Barrera will examine your tooth and determine if you need a root canal. Call (305) 667-8887 to schedule an appointment at the 6437 SW 40th St. office, or (305) 408-3388 to reach the office at 13091 SW 88th St.