The Truth About Dental Abscesses

The Truth About Dental Abscesses

Posted by COVINGTON DENTISTRY on Nov 11 2020, 04:38 AM

Though dental abscesses are often painful, they don't always need to be painful. Sometimes, they can occur without any pain. In either case, it’s important to consult a dentist because it can’t be cured naturally. In fact, without proper treatment, it can spread to other parts of your body. 

What Is a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is an infection found within the tooth or gums. Due to bacterial infection, a sore pocket filled with pus is formed inside the mouth or throat. 

There are two types of dental abscesses:

Periapical abscess - A periapical abscess is formed at the root of a tooth. It usually occurs when the decay gets deep into your nerve chamber and damages the nerve tissue. A cracked tooth, as a result of an injury, can damage this nerve. 

Periodontal abscess - A periodontal abscess is formed in the gum. Periodontal disease is a chronic gum infection that results in tooth and bone loss. Without proper treatment, the infection can spread throughout your mouth. 

Symptoms of Dental Abscess

  • Fever
  • Severe toothache that radiates to your jawbone and ear.
  • Swelling of the gums and neck glands
  • Swelling of the face
  • Soreness in your neck and jaw area.
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Bad breath

Treatment

First, the dentist will check your infected tooth using a dental instrument. They will check the intensity of pain and also the state of your gums. To ensure whether there’s any decay of the bone, they will take an X-ray. 

Once you are diagnosed with a dental abscess, antibiotics may be prescribed for your infection. There are different methods of treatment depending on the reason behind the abscess. 

  • If it is due to a dying nerve, then a root canal is suggested. The infected tissue is cleaned out and the canals are shaped to accommodate a rubber-like seal to cover it. A crown is also placed over the tooth to prevent it from further damage. 
  • If the infection has gotten into the root, the tooth is extracted and a dental implant may be placed. 
  • If the abscess has occurred due to periodontal disease, scaling and root planing are recommended. It consists of deep cleaning using some special instruments. 

Prevention

  • Regularly have dental checkups
  • Maintain your oral health
  • Reduce the intake of sugar and carbs
  • Drink fluoridated water
  • Reduce or stop smoking

Covington Signature Dentistry focuses on restoring your healthy smile. For more details, call us at (253) 638-9955 or visit us at 27121 174th Place SE, Suite 202, Covington, WA 98042. 

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