What Causes Tooth Infection

Tooth infections involve invasion of bacteria into the pulp inside teeth. When the tissue that normally protects the pulp is broken, these bacteria can enter and create severe pain and serious complications. Understanding the causes is helpful for recognizing when a visit to our San Francisco dentist is warranted.

The damage to tooth structure that comes before infection can occur quickly or over time. With physical trauma, such as from accidents, the damage may be virtually instant or develop rapidly along a fracture. Long-term untreated decay is slower but very common. Left alone, cavities can eventually reach the pulp.

Root canal therapy or surgery is the standard method of treating tooth infections. In rare cases, infections can re-occur after this treatment, particularly if the infected tissue is not completely removed or if the tooth is not properly protected afterwards. In such cases, our San Francisco endodontist may recommend re-treatment.

Done correctly, root canal treatment can give patients decades more comfort, performance and aesthetic enjoyment from their natural teeth. Modern techniques and anesthesia make root canal an easy procedure for patients to tolerate. At a consultation with the dentist, patients can learn more about what causes tooth infections and how treatment is performed.