Health

Dental Infections Unmasked: A Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Dental infections are a frequent oral health problem and, if left untreated, can be painful, uncomfortable, and even dangerous.

Around 3.5 Billion people suffer from this issue worldwide. Dental pain can be so excruciating that sometimes the patient can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment.

Therefore, when it comes to treating oral infections, virtual doctors can be invaluable in providing quick diagnosis and therapy. Patients can get dental advice and care from specialists without leaving home and waiting for days, weeks, or sometimes even months, thanks to telemedicine and online consultations.

Dental infections are only one of the many conditions that TelMDCare’s team of online doctors is trained to treat. Their experienced virtual doctors provide guidance, diagnosis, and treatment for various health concerns.

What are the three major types of dental infections?

1.      Dental Abscess:

There are two types of dental abscesses: periapical and periodontal.

When germs infiltrate the pulp of a tooth and cause an infection, a periapical abscess forms near the root tip of the affected tooth. These germs invade the pulp because of some untreated tooth issues, such as decay. The patient’s gums had a pus-filled lump on them, and they were swollen and sensitive to pressure.

Abscesses in the gums or periodontal tissues are caused by infection due to untreated or severe periodontal conditions. The patient experiences inflammation of the gums, discomfort, pus discharge, and a foul flavor.

2.      Dental Cavities:

According to online doctors, the acid formed by bacteria causes tooth enamel to erode, resulting in cavities or enamel caries. Enamel caries are caused by a lack of fluoride contact, poor oral care, and eating plenty of sweet foods. The affected person experienced tooth sensitivity to heat, cold, or sweetness. 

Cavities in the dentin, the soft, largest layer of the tooth beneath the enamel, are called dentin caries. Dentin provides support for enamel and protects the pulp from harmful germs. Since it is softer than enamel, it has a higher damage chance. These cavities in the enamel result in discomfort, discoloration of the affected tooth, and sensitivity.

3.      Gum Infections:

Infections of the gums, also known as gingivitis, are the earliest and mildest phase of gum diseases. It leads to foul breath, gum swelling, bleeding gums, and sensitivities. Gingivitis can be caused by infections from bacteria, plaque accumulation, and a lack of proper dental hygiene.

Periodontitis is a severe kind of gum disease that destroys gum tissue and the bone that holds teeth in place. This infection creates significant spaces between the teeth and gums, tooth loss, and alterations to the dental position.

Dental Infection Diagnosis

To make a diagnosis, a dentist will do a visual examination of the patient’s mouth and teeth, looking for symptoms of infection such as inflammation, swelling, and soreness.

In some cases, the online doctor can also ask for an X-ray of individual teeth or the whole cavity, helping to identify dental abscesses and evaluate tooth roots. This paves the way for a diagnosis of any dental infections or diseases.

What Are The Types of  Dental Treatments?

Dental problems include a wide range of potential treatments. Dental infections can be treated in a variety of ways.

Medication

To treat and prevent further infection by bacteria, antibiotics may be administered for dental infections. They are effective in lowering infection rates, easing symptoms, and stopping the growth of bacteria.

Medication is effective in some instances. Analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed for pain treatment.

Root Canal

When the tooth pulp becomes infected or inflamed, root canal therapy is used to alleviate the pain. The goals of root canal therapy are to save the tooth, reduce discomfort, and eradicate infection.

During this operation, the diseased pulp is extracted, and the root canals are cleaned, shaped, and filled with biocompatible material.

Dental Filling

When a tooth has been damaged by dental caries, a dental filling can be utilized to heal and repair the tooth.

The affected area of the tooth is extracted, and then the opening is sealed with a dental composite. The form, function, and aesthetics of a tooth can all be restored with a dental filling.

Dental Crown

When a tooth has been severely damaged by disease or wear and tear, a dental crown can be used to restore its strength, appearance, and function.

In addition to strengthening and reinforcing the teeth, they can also make them look better.

Periodontal Treatments

Periodontal treatments can be non-surgical or surgical. A non-invasive way to treat periodontal issues is through root planning. Plaque and tartar are removed from the tooth and root surfaces, and the root surfaces are smoothed to encourage gum recovery and adherence.

However, surgery may be required to take out the infected tissue, restore destroyed gum tissues, and eradicate large pockets.

Extraction

Extreme instances of tooth decay or extensive gum infections can necessitate extraction. After a tooth is extracted, it may be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or dentures.

How Do Virtual Doctors Help With Dental Infections?

Video or image sharing lets patients demonstrate to the virtual doctor what they’re experiencing, such as aching gums or cavities. The patient’s dental appearance and facts may help the dentist form a preliminary diagnosis.

Virtual doctors provide consultations and prescriptions as per the patient’s needs. They may suggest OTC medications, antibiotics, or dental treatment.

Online doctor follow-ups can track therapy progress and handle issues. Due to this, frequent dentist visits aren’t needed for treatment and guidance.

They may also teach you ways to prevent tooth infections, properly maintain gums and teeth, and change your lifestyle by advising on brushing, flossing, dieting, dental checkups, and more, all in the comfort of your home.

Ease Your Dental Pain With TelMDCare’s Professional Online Doctors

Adequate dental care, such as brushing and flossing regularly, is also vital for warding off new infections and keeping teeth and gums healthy.

Virtual doctors for dental infections at TelMDCare offer their experienced, professional healthcare services for dental care as well as other health concerns. They provide exceptional and affordable online healthcare in various US states.

So, no more suffering and waiting for your doctor’s appointment. Book a doctor’s appointment online today with them and relieve yourself from the pain.

About the Author

Kate S. is a blogger who regularly writes about oral hygiene, its concerns, and ways to maintain proper oral health. She also likes reading books and loves to paint.