How can a Tooth Infection Occur After a Filling?
A tooth infection is called a tooth abscess, dental abscess or root abscess. It originates in the tooth or cavity and spreads to the mouth, jaw, throat and face. If left untreated, the bacteria reaches the dental pulp and infects the nerves as well as blood vessels. This causes the death of these nerves and blood vessels leading to an abscess. This causes inflammation, pus formation and swelling. If the infection spreads further, it could enter the blood circulatory system leading to fever, sweating and nausea. There are three types of tooth abscess – gingival abscess (involves just the gum tissues), periapical abscess (originates at the root apex) and periodontal abscess (originates in the pocket of gingiva and involves the bones and tissues supporting the teeth).
Causes
Tooth infection that occurs after a filling may happen if the bacteria gains entry into the cavity during dental restoration. Improper filling or cracks in filling can help the bacteria gain entry and reach the dental pulp. When one does not follow proper dental hygiene, it becomes even more easy for the bacteria in the mouth to cause a tooth infection following a filling. If the tooth filling or dental restoration is not done properly, it could lead to a lot of tooth pain. Tooth pain may occur due to the following causes.
Trauma
During the filling procedure, the pulp may undergo sudden shock. This means that the inner tooth tissues were already very weak before the filling was done. Tooth pain in this case can be treated by a root canal procedure.
Structural Misalignment
When the tooth fillings are not sharpened properly, it causes irritation of the dental cavity. The improper shaped fillings cause swelling of the tissues surrounding the tooth leading to a constant pain. The ill-fitting filling or crack may be reshaped to reduce the swelling and pain.
Referred Pain
Many times, nerves in the nearby tooth are affected by the filling procedure. They begin to send signals of pain and irritation that is caught by the filled tooth. Thus, it leads to pain.
Sensitivity
A newly-filled cavity is very sensitive to hot and cold foods, drinks, as well as air. Even heavy pressure while biting will lead to pain in the tooth in question. This condition generally resolves in a few weeks and if not, then it’s time to visit your dentist again.
An infection generally occurs due to a crack on the filling that allows entry of bacteria into the dental cavity. Do not take the associated pain for granted. Visit your dentist again and allow him to diagnose the cause of the pain. You may need a root canal treatment to stop the infection from spreading. Good dental care at the correct time will ensure your general well-being.
