A dental infection is usually a pus-filled area, like a sac or boil, caused by bacterial activity triggered by adverse conditions around the mouth, including poor oral hygiene, excessive sugar consumption, and tobacco and alcohol use. So if you are wondering how to protect your teeth from infection, here is the solution.
Read the causes of dental infections
Tooth infections can arise in a variety of situations, such as:
1. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems, including infections.
2. Infection can be transmitted through procedures or instruments in the mouth, so sterilization and infection control protocols should be strictly followed.
3. More likely in patients with diabetes or autoimmune diseases.
How do you recognize an oral infection?
Dental infections, once started in the mouth, can quickly spread and damage adjacent support structures, eventually leading to tooth loss. Therefore, it is imperative to protect your teeth from infection and to recognize the early signs.
Common signs of tooth infection are:
- bleeding from the gums
- discharge of pus
- Putrid odor from the mouth
- Putrid taste in the mouth
How do you treat tooth infections?
If you’ve been diagnosed with an infection, there are ways to treat it. This may include medications or certain dental procedures that can physically drain the infection.
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Antibiotic therapy is always the first line of treatment for an infection.
Some infections do not respond to medication or require further physical treatment, which can be done with a variety of dental procedures.
A dental laser is very effective in treating gum infections and creates a sterile environment, and root canal or endodontic treatment helps treat tooth-related infections.
How to prevent oral infection?
As they say, prevention is always better than cure. Therefore, good oral hygiene is essential to keep your teeth healthy and infection-free. Here are 5 tips to protect your teeth:
1. Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and protects against tooth decay.
2. Floss at least once a day. Dental floss removes plaque and food debris from between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.
3. Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria that can lead to infection.
4. Eat a balanced diet with crunchy fruits and vegetables that help clean your teeth and gums. Avoid sugary and starchy foods, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
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5. Visit the dentist frequently for cleanings and exams. Your dentist can identify and treat early signs of infection before it becomes a more serious problem.
By taking these steps, you can help protect your teeth from infection and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
