Dental Abscesses

What Is an Abscessed Tooth?

An abscessed tooth is an infection in or around the tooth. It can be extremely painful and, if left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of your body and become a serious health concern.

There are two main types of dental abscesses:

• Periapical abscess: Occurs at the tip of the tooth's root, usually from an untreated cavity or cracked tooth
• Periodontal abscess: Occurs in the gum next to the tooth root, usually related to gum disease

What Causes a Dental Abscess?

Damage to the tooth, an untreated cavity, or gum disease can cause an abscessed tooth.

If a cavity isn't treated, the inside of the tooth (the pulp) can become infected. Bacteria can spread from the tooth to the surrounding tissue, creating an abscess.

Gum disease causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, leaving pockets. If food builds up in these pockets, bacteria can grow and an abscess can form. Over time, an abscess can cause the bone around the tooth to dissolve.

Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Throbbing pain, especially when you chew
• Red, swollen gums
• A bad, salty taste in your mouth
• Swelling in your jaw or face
• A fever
• A red, swollen bump in your mouth that may ooze blood or pus
• A tooth that is very tender or sore to the touch
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures

Warning: Over time as the infection spreads, the bone in your jaw may start to dissolve. You may feel less pain when this happens, but the infection is still there. If you lose too much bone, your tooth will become loose and may need to be removed.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your dentist will ask about your symptoms and look for swelling and other signs of infection. They may tap on the tooth, apply heat or cold, and take dental X-rays to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment Options

An abscessed tooth needs treatment right away. Your dentist may:

• Prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection
• Drain the abscess through a small incision in the gum
• Perform a root canal to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth
• Extract the tooth if it cannot be saved

Managing Pain at Home

While waiting for your appointment, these steps can help reduce discomfort:

Preventing Dental Abscesses

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
• Don't ignore cavities - get them treated early
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months
• Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks

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