HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Achieve Exam Success!

A common sign of an oral infection is pain and swelling around the affected area. When an infection occurs, the body's immune response activates, leading to inflammation in the area. This inflammation is often accompanied by pain, which serves as a protective mechanism signaling the individual to seek treatment. Swelling occurs as fluid accumulates, and inflammatory cells congregate to combat the infection.

Increased appetite is not typically associated with infections, as discomfort may lead to a reduced desire to eat. Improved gum health would indicate a reduction in inflammation or disease, which contradicts the presence of an infection. Reduced sensitivity to temperature is also not an indicator of infection; instead, individuals with infections usually experience heightened sensitivity to discomfort from hot or cold substances. Thus, the presence of pain and swelling is a reliable indicator of an oral infection, and understanding these symptoms is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment.