How do you know when you have a bad tooth? If you've ever had a toothache from a cavity or an infected tooth, you won't soon forget it. But sometimes a tooth can be bad without causing you any pain.
Sometimes you won't feel it because the nerve is dead inside the tooth. Once a tooth is that far gone, it usually needs to be extracted.
Warning Signs
- Persistent toothache or pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Visible holes or dark spots on teeth
- Swelling in the gums around a tooth
- Bad breath or bad taste in mouth
- Tooth feels loose
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Pus or drainage around a tooth
When to Seek Treatment
If you notice any of these signs, don't wait. Early treatment can often save a tooth. Delaying treatment may lead to more serious problems, including the need for extraction.
Treatment Options
Depending on the condition of your tooth, treatment options may include fillings, root canals, crowns, or extraction with replacement by a dental implant.