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An oral infection is a disease that involves or affects any part of the mouth, including the teeth, gums, and tongue. Bacteria can cause oral conditions in the mouth, viruses, fungi, parasites, and other diseases spread by saliva. In some cases, allergies can also cause oral infections.

Some of the most common symptoms of an oral infection are pain, swelling, redness, foul smell coming from the mouth, fever, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. If left untreated, the disease can also spread to other body parts and cause complications. Visit Osuna Dental Care, for the best dental care.

How Are Oral Infections Treated?

A family dentist will examine your mouth and throat for signs of an oral infection, including pain, redness, swelling, and pus. If a condition is present, the dentist will prescribe medication to treat it. If you have an infected tooth, you may need to take an antibiotic to prevent complications like osteomyelitis or bone inflammation. You may also be advised to undergo root canal therapy if the infection has spread to the pulp in your tooth. For patients with gum disease, a dentist may perform deep cleanings to remove plaque buildup and bacteria from above and below the gum line. However, if gum disease has advanced significantly, your dentist may recommend surgical treatments such as tissue grafts or flap surgery to repair your gums.

Preventing Oral Infections

Some forms of oral infection, like gum disease and decay, can be prevented by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your family dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings. This routine will significantly reduce your chance of developing an oral infection.

When teeth are not regularly brushed and flossed, plaque and tartar can build up. Plaque is soft and sticky, which makes it ideal for clinging to your teeth and creating cavities when it hardens into tartar. Having tartar on your teeth dramatically increases your risk of developing tooth decay. Cavities are one of the most common causes of tooth pain and loss. In addition to causing pain, tooth decay can increase your risk of an oral infection. A cavity that reaches the pulp of your tooth is infected and requires treatment as soon as possible. The disease can spread to other parts of your mouth and cause further complications with your teeth and gums. Treating the condition before it spreads is the best way to avoid gum recession and other periodontal diseases.

A family dentist can provide dental care services to patients of all ages, including children as young as toddlers and infants. For the best dental care tailored to your unique needs, visit Osuna Dental Care at 5900 Cubero Dr NE suite B, Albuquerque, NM 87109, or call (505) 884-1989.