A bad tooth can stem from a cavity, chip or other damage. An abscess occurs when you have an infection in the center of a tooth, often involving the nerves inside your tooth, and in many instances a dentist will need to pull the affected tooth. If you detect a bad tooth early, you may avoid the need to extract the tooth. Learn to check for possible signs of decay or other problems so you know when to contact your dentist before you have serious complications.
Step 1
Look in a mirror to check for signs of damage, such as chips, dark spots or discoloration. These signs indicate a bad tooth that needs evaluation from a dentist. Look at your gums. Swollen or bright red tissue around your teeth may indicate gum disease, a condition that can damage your teeth.
Step 2
Touch each tooth with your finger or tongue to feel for chips or other apparent damage. This allows you to feel for sharp edges and test for teeth sensitivity to pressure or movement. You may also notice painful sensitivities while chewing or biting into your food.
Step 3
Check your breath. You may smell a foul odor when you breathe or notice a consistently bad taste in your mouth. Chronic bad breath can indicate a number of health problems, including gum disease and other conditions involving your dental health.
Tips and Warnings
- Regular examinations and teeth cleaning can help keep your teeth healthy. Brush and floss your teeth at least three times a day to prevent cavities and other damage to your teeth. Avoid eating or drinking products that have a high sugar content to prevent cavities.
- If you notice damage or other signs of a bad tooth, contact your dentist for an evaluation. Waiting to repair or treat the tooth could lead to infections or further damage that may require extraction of the tooth.
