Dental Abscesses: Causes And Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and swelling in your mouth, you should consider the possibility that you are suffering from a dental abscess. More than simply a sore in your mouth, abscesses can cause you to be severely ill, and in some cases, even lead to death. For more information about what a dental abscess is and how it's treated, read below.

What is a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is caused by bacteria that has been allowed to enter the gum area, often due to a damaged tooth or a cavity. Other causes include underlying immune system disorders and undergoing chemotherapy. Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontal) is also a major cause of dental abscesses. A swollen area filled with pus appears at the infection site, and the pain and infection can spread to surrounding facial areas like jaws, cheeks, throat, sinus cavities and in some cases, your brain.

Symptoms include:

  • Pain (note that pain is not always present)
  • Fever
  • Pocket of pus, usually visible on the gum
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sweats

How are Dental Abscesses Treated?

Your level of symptoms should determine the speed at which you seek care. If you feel very sick, do not wait for a dentist appointment. Go to the emergency room immediately, especially if you are having trouble breathing. Dental abscesses can cause your throat to swell, closing your airway. Though relatively rare, if the infection spreads to your brain, death can occur.

For milder symptoms, over-the-counter NSAIDs will relieve the pain and inflammation until you can see your dentist. Your dentist will treat the abscess by draining the area and prescribing antibiotics to fight the infection.

While the initial treatment of the abscess will involve alleviating the pain and infection, the underlying cause of the abscess must be determined to prevent the possible recurrence. Many times, the problem is caused by a tooth, which usually means that a root canal must be performed.  Sometimes, it is necessary to extract the tooth.

How can Dental Abscesses be Prevented?

  • Daily brushing and flossing.
  • Regular dental checkups to detect cavities early before they progress to abscesses.
  • Avoid smoking and particularly the use of chewing tobacco.

After reading the information above, you should have a better idea whether or not you have a dental abscess and the need for timely treatment. See your doctor or dentist as soon as possible to stop this potentially dangerous infection and return your mouth back to health. For more information, visit http://www.fortcollinsdentist.com or a similar website.


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