How Do I Know If My Tooth Is Infected? Clear Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
September 3, 2025
An infected tooth often causes a constant, throbbing toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swollen gums or face, bad taste or bad breath, fever, and tender lymph nodes.
Quick Clues to Watch
| Sign | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Throbbing toothache | Pain may spread to jaw, ear, or neck |
| Temperature sensitivity | Discomfort with hot or cold drinks or foods |
| Chewing pain | Pressure increases pain—common in abscess |
| Swelling or a pimple-like gum bump | May ooze pus or cause facial swelling |
| Fever & Tender Nodes | Infection spreading—medical attention needed |
| Persistent bad taste or breath | Indicates pus or drainage in the mouth |
- About
200,000 Americans visit ERs yearly for severe dental infections like
tooth abscesses—25% of all oral-health ER cases.
- And yet, 1 in 4 people may have a hidden infection they don’t feel yet—making regular checkups vital.
Conclusion
If you recognize any of these signs—especially the phrase “How do I know if my tooth is infected?”—don’t wait. At Schwimmer Dental, we're ready to help you catch it early and start treatment fast. Call us today to schedule a checkup and protect your smile.
Sources:
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