Dental Abscess Symptoms and Causes
A dental abscess is a painful infection that forms in the tooth or surrounding tissue. It is caused by bacteria that enter the tooth through a cavity or crack. The bacteria then multiply and release toxins that cause inflammation and pain.
Symptoms of a dental abscess
The symptoms of a dental abscess can include:
- Severe pain in the tooth or surrounding area. The pain is often described as throbbing or aching. It can be worse at night or when you bite down.
- Swelling of the gums. The gums around the affected tooth may be red, swollen, and tender.
- Fever. A low-grade fever is common with a dental abscess.
- Bad breath. The infection can cause a foul odor to come from the mouth.
- Pus draining from the tooth or gums. In some cases, the abscess may rupture and pus may drain from the tooth or gums.
- Stiff neck. If the abscess is near the jaw, it can cause pain and stiffness in the neck.
- Earache. If the abscess is near the ear, it can cause pain and drainage from the ear.
- Chills. If the abscess is severe, it can cause chills and fever.
Causes of a dental abscess
The most common cause of a dental abscess is a cavity. A cavity is a hole in the tooth that can be caused by plaque buildup. Plaque is a thick film of bacteria and food slurry that can accumulate and harden on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar. Tartar can inflame your gums and, eventually, lead to receding gums and tooth loss.. This can expose the root of the tooth, which can lead to a dental abscess.
Other causes of a dental abscess include:
- A crack or chip in the tooth.
- A deep filling or crown.
- An injury to the tooth.
- A gum disease.
- A poorly fitting denture.
Treatment for a dental abscess
The treatment for a dental abscess depends on the severity of the infection. In some cases, the dentist may be able to treat the abscess with antibiotics. However, in most cases, the dentist will need to drain the abscess and remove the source of the infection.
The dentist may drain the abscess by making a small incision in the gum. The pus will then be drained out. The dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection.
If the tooth that is causing the abscess is not salvageable, the dentist will need to remove it. This is usually done by extracting the tooth.
Aftercare for a dental abscess
After the dentist has treated the abscess, you will need to follow their instructions carefully. This may include taking antibiotics, using pain medication, and avoiding chewing on the affected side of your mouth.
It is important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully to prevent the abscess from returning.
Complications of a dental abscess
If a dental abscess is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications. These complications can include:
- Spread of the infection to other parts of the body, such as the jaw, sinuses, or brain.
- Heart infection.
- Kidney infection.
- Bone infection.
- Death.
Preventing a dental abscess
The best way to prevent a dental abscess is to take good care of your teeth. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
If you have a cavity or crack in your tooth, it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent an abscess from forming.
Time to see a Dentist
A dental abscess is a serious infection that requires prompt treatment. If you experience any of the symptoms of a dental abscess, it is important to see a dentist right away. The dentist will diagnose the abscess and recommend the best treatment option.
By following your dentist's instructions carefully, you can help prevent the abscess from returning and avoid serious complications.