Dental Abscess: Symptoms, Causes and When to Seek Treatment
Dental Abscess Overview A dental abscess is a pus-filled pocket caused by an infection in a tooth or in the tissues that support the teeth. Though a toothache may not appear like a very serious condition at first glance, one cannot take a dental abscess lightly, because, without proper medical attention, the infection could spread.
Getting to know about the symptoms and treatment of a dental abscess could prove useful.
What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is pus formed due to a bacterial infection. It may form inside the tooth, in the root area, or in the gums.
Types of a dental abscess include:
Periapical Abscess
The periapical abscess is found at the end of a tooth root. This type of an abscess usually forms because bacteria enter the center of a tooth via cavities or tooth damage.
Periodontal Abscess
The periodontal abscess is formed in the gum tissue around the tooth. This type of a dental abscess is commonly connected to gum diseases.
Both types of an abscess may lead to considerable pain and require professional treatment.
What Causes a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is usually caused by a bacterial infection. There are various dental conditions that may allow bacteria to reach the deep layers.
Common causes include:
- Untreated tooth decay
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Dental trauma
- Deep fillings or previous dental problems
- Gum disease
- Poor oral hygiene
- An untreated infection inside the tooth
A cavity that is left untreated can gradually become deeper. If bacteria reach the pulp of the tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located, an infection can develop and potentially lead to an abscess.
What Are the Symptoms of a Dental Abscess?
Symptoms can vary depending on where the infection develops, but common signs include:
- Severe or persistent toothache
- Throbbing pain
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling around the tooth or gum
- A swollen face or jaw
- Red or tender gums
- A bad taste in the mouth
- Pus around the affected tooth
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Fever or feeling generally unwell
Sometimes an abscess can drain, causing the pain to temporarily improve. However, this does not necessarily mean the infection has gone away.
When Should You See a Dentist?
In case you have a dental abscess, then you need to make an appointment for the same.
Pain in teeth, swollen face, swelling of gums, fever or difficulty in swallowing can be symptoms of the presence of the infection which needs immediate treatment.
The dental abscess will not normally go away permanently if the root cause of the infection is not treated.
Is a Dental Abscess a Dental Emergency?
Emergency Dental abscess can demand immediate attention, especially in cases where the pain or swelling is intense.
Immediate professional help should be sought in cases where:
- Rapidly increasing facial or mouth swelling
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Severe pain that is getting worse
- Fever accompanied by dental swelling
- Significant swelling around the eye or neck
- Feeling seriously unwell
If symptoms are severe or you are having difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical care immediately.
How Is a Dental Abscess Treated?
The treatment options depend on where the infection is located, how severe it is, and the condition of the affected tooth.
A dentist can choose one of the following treatment options:
Draining the Abscess
When it is appropriate, the dentist can drain the pus-filled pocket to decrease pressure and control the infection.
Root Canal Treatment
When the infection has affected the tooth’s interior, root canal therapy may be required to eliminate the infected tissue and preserve the tooth.
Tooth Extraction
In some cases, when the tooth is damaged to a large extent and cannot be repaired, the removal of the tooth becomes inevitable.
Antibiotics
In some cases, antibiotics may be required, especially if there are any signs of spreading the infection or systemic infection symptoms. Antibiotics themselves cannot remove the cause of dental abscess, therefore, dental treatment may be required.
What Can You Do Until You See a Dentist?
If you’re waiting for an urgent dental appointment, there are some simple steps that may help you manage discomfort:
- Keep the area as clean as possible.
- Brush gently around the affected area.
- Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks if they increase sensitivity.
- Choose softer foods if chewing is uncomfortable.
- Follow the dosage instructions for any suitable over-the-counter pain relief.
- Do not attempt to squeeze or pop the abscess yourself.
Most importantly, don’t use home remedies as a substitute for professional dental treatment.
Can a Dental Abscess Be Prevented?
Good everyday oral care can significantly reduce your risk of developing dental problems that can lead to an abscess.
Try to:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth regularly.
- Limit frequent sugary foods and drinks.
- Attend regular dental examinations.
- Have tooth decay treated promptly.
- Speak to your dentist if you develop persistent tooth pain or sensitivity.
- Protect your teeth during activities where dental injuries are possible.
Early treatment of cavities, cracks and gum problems can help prevent infections from becoming more serious.
Don’t Ignore Persistent Tooth Pain
A dental abscess is more than just a painful tooth. A dental abscess is an indication of infection, which needs professional assessment and treatment.
If you experience pain in your tooth along with other symptoms such as swelling and a foul taste in your mouth, then do not hesitate until the situation solves itself.
In case you need emergency dental care in Archway, London, Blue Light Dental Clinic offers emergency dental treatment slots based on availability. Do not delay, and get in touch with the dental professionals to discuss your condition and receive the necessary treatment.
Taking prompt action can ease your discomfort and prevent further complications of your oral health.
