Are you experiencing toothache but aren’t sure what the cause is? Toothaches can be caused by a variety of things, including an infected or impacted tooth. But how can you tell which one it is? At Kind Dental in Rock Hill, emergency dentist Dr. Mallika Rupani understands that dental health scares and concerns can be overwhelming and took the time to explain the main differences between an infected tooth and an impacted tooth – what they are, what causes them, and how they may impact your oral health. Grasping the distinctions between these two conditions can help you identify the specific issue you’re facing before seeking urgent care.
Symptoms
Anyone who has experienced dental pain knows that it can be excruciating, but how can you tell if an infected or an impacted tooth is the source of your woes? While both conditions can cause discomfort, they have distinct symptoms. A dental infection may cause swelling, tenderness, and redness in the affected area. You may also experience tooth sensitivity, a fever, and even pus.
On the other hand, an impacted tooth occurs when a tooth does not erupt properly and becomes trapped in the gums. Symptoms of an impacted tooth may include discomfort when biting or chewing, swollen gums, and bad breath. Knowing the difference between the symptoms of these dental conditions is crucial for seeking proper treatment and quick relief.
Causes
Dental infections and impacted teeth may seem like similar dental problems, but the causes that lead to each are actually quite different. While a dental infection can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor oral hygiene, a weakened immune system, or an untreated cavity, an impacted tooth is typically the result of overcrowding in the mouth or a tooth growing in at an angle.
Treatment
Dental issues can be quite a hassle to deal with, especially if there’s an infection or an impacted tooth involved. But it’s important to know that the treatment for both of these issues is vastly different. It’s important to note that infected and impacted teeth can both constitute a dental emergency.
While a dental infection can be treated with antibiotics or endodontic (inner tooth) treatment, an impacted tooth requires surgical removal. This is because an impacted tooth occurs when a tooth fails to emerge from the gums, causing pain and discomfort. Overall, if you’re experiencing either of these issues, it’s best to consult with your Rock Hill emergency dentist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Contact Our Rock Hill Emergency Dentist ASAP
If you are experiencing discomfort or pain due to an impacted tooth or dental infection, we strongly recommend that you schedule a consultation at Kind Dental in Rockhill. Our emergency dentist can carefully evaluate your condition and provide an accurate diagnosis to determine the most effective solution for you.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any concerns regarding an infected or impacted tooth and schedule a consultation with our office. Call 803-879-2469 to schedule an appointment with our Rock Hill emergency dentist. Kind Dental is here to help you.
