Common symptoms
Toothache
Persistent or throbbing pain in or around a tooth
Facial swelling
Swelling of the gums, cheek, or face near the affected tooth
Fever
Elevated body temperature indicating the body is fighting infection
Bad taste or odor
Foul taste or smell coming from the infected tooth or surrounding area
Gum redness
Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue around the affected tooth
Dental infections typically develop when bacteria invade the dental pulp — the innermost part of the tooth — following untreated decay, a cracked tooth, or gum disease. Pain may be constant or triggered by pressure, heat, or cold.
The infection can spread rapidly to surrounding tissue, the jaw, neck, or even the airway if left untreated. Antibiotic therapy combined with dental intervention is usually required.
After antibiotics are started and definitive dental treatment is performed, swelling and pain typically subside within a few days. Follow-up with a dentist is essential to address the underlying cause.