September is National Dental Infection Control Awareness Month

The Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP) is sponsoring the annual Dental Infection Control Awareness Month in September, which promotes the dental community’s commitment to infection control by adopting CDC guidelines. Every year, the dental community reaffirms its commitment to safe dental practices within the office to promote optimal dental health for patients.

Let’s take a look at how you can do your part to prevent dental infections.

Tooth infection originates from a cavity or by gingivitis (mild gum disease). Both conditions can be treated by your dentist; left unchecked, however, they can evolve into serious health problems that may spread beyond your mouth. Untreated cavities in a tooth will worsen and gum disease will spread. An abscess (an infection in the tooth’s root or between the gums) can develop and spread an infection to the bone supporting the tooth.

If left untreated, the infection may cause the bacteria in the mouth to get into the bloodstream and consequently the heart valves. This condition weakens the valves, making infection likely, with the potential to cause life-threatening conditions.

A tooth infection is often painful, but it can be present even without any signs of pain or discomfort. There are several types of dental infections, those inside the tooth and those in the bone surrounding the tooth. Your dentist can explain the differences during an exam.

Signs and Symptoms

Make an appointment with your dentist right away if you notice:

• Out of control pus
• Sudden appearance of a pimple in the mouth
• Pain when chewing
• Tooth movement
• Swelling of gums or cheeks
• Discoloration of tooth or gums
• Fever
• Bitter taste in mouth

Prevention

• Keep up with oral hygiene. Brush and floss twice daily.
• Stay on top of regularly scheduled dental check-ups and cleanings. Deep cleanings every six months will uncover any brewing infections.
• Stay away from sweets, as sugar feeds bacteria that forms the basis for an infection.
• Use fluoridated toothpaste.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months, as infection-causing bacteria can build up on your toothbrush.

Contact Studio City Dental

If you suspect you have a dental infection, get help right away. Contact us at 818-762-2977.