Can Gum Disease Cause a Tooth Infection?

Gum disease is a problem for millions of people all over the country. The older you get, the more likely you are to have some form of it. Minor gum disease is little more than inflammation and can be managed with floss and mouthwash. Moderate to severe gum disease can lead to more serious infections. Here, we’ll look at how gum disease can impact the tooth and how to best fight it.

Gum Disease and Tooth Infections

You can think of the gums and teeth as a two-way street: build-up on teeth can infect the gums and vice versa. As plaque and bacteria build up on the gums, the gum tissue gives way to pockets to accommodate the debris. The infection then moves its way up to the bone and ligaments, which can cause a periodontal abscess.

How Do I Know If I Have a Tooth Infection?

A tooth infection in Indianapolis, IN can manifest as either gum or tooth pain. Symptoms include swelling, redness, throbbing, and a single bump on the gumline. If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease in the past and you’re noticing a change in the tissue, it’s important to track the changes and contact a specialist to avoid major damage.

Is a Tooth Infection an Emergency?

Yes, a tooth infection can be an emergency, in some cases a life-or-death emergency. Abscesses will often isolate in the mouth, meaning you’re at risk of losing the tooth. However, there is a possibility that the infection will move to the bloodstream, putting your larger circulatory system (and heart) at risk. At Indiana Emergency Dental, our emergency dentists in Indianapolis, IN offer 24/7 emergency care specifically to help people in critical condition get the interventions they need.