Ingrown toenails can be painful and chronic if not treated correctly. At PREMIER PODIATRY, INC, Dr. Dozier offers the most effective treatment for your nail, whether you have an infected ingrown nail or you have ingrown nails that keep recurring. She works with you to find the best treatment for any type of ingrown nail. To schedule an appointment for ingrown toenails with PREMIER PODIATRY, INC, call the office in Bethlehem, Georgia, or book online today.

request an appointment

Why did I develop an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail penetrates and grows into the surrounding skin and is often a result of improper nail care. If you trim your nails too short or at an angle, you’re at a greater risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails than others. Genetics, wearing socks or shoes that are too tight, nail fungal infections, or a prior toe injury are some factors that can increase your risk of ingrown toenails.

How do I know I have an ingrown toenail?

Common indications that you have an ingrown toenail include:

  • Swelling or inflammation around the nail
  • Redness
  • Tenderness of the toe, especially near the nail
  • Warmth
  • Pain

The digging of your toenail into your skin can cause infection. If you notice the area is swollen, red, painful, or producing pus, it’s important to reach out to Dr. Dozier right away.

How do you treat ingrown toenails?

Many ingrown toenail cases can successfully be treated at home. Dr. Dozier may recommend soaking your foot several times a day and applying over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. If you have a mild infection, antibiotics help, along with keeping your affected foot in loose-fitting shoes and socks so the area can breathe.

If you have diabetes and notice signs of an ingrown toenail, it’s important to seek Dr. Dozier’s guidance right away. A foot infection in diabetic feet can lead to serious complications.

If you experience severe or repeated ingrown toenails, you may benefit from ingrown toenail surgery. This minimally invasive procedure involves removing part of the ingrown toenail to relieve pain and prevent future infection. This surgery can permanently prevent ingrown toenails.

How do I prevent ingrown toenails?

Prevent ingrown toenails by trimming the nails straight across. Keep them at a moderate length (not too short or too long). Avoid tight-fitting shoes. When you first notice the signs of an ingrown toenail, take care of your foot with regular soaks and antibiotic ointments.

To schedule an appointment for ingrown toenails with PREMIER PODIATRY, INC, call the office in Bethlehem, Georgia, or book online today.