A bacterial infection causes a tooth abscess, which is a pocket of pus. The abscess can occur near the tooth for different reasons. At the tip of the root, a periapical abscess occurs, while in the gums at the side of a tooth root, a periodontal abscess occurs. This article is about periapical abscesses.
An untreated dental cavity, an injury, or prior dental work usually causes a periapical tooth abscess. The resulting infection causes inflammation, irritation, and swelling, leading to an abscess at the tip of the root.
Dentists will treat a tooth abscess by draining it and eliminating the infection. With a root canal treatment, they may be able to save the tooth. However, in some cases, the tooth may need to be pulled. Serious, even life-threatening complications can arise if a tooth abscess is left untreated.
Symptoms
1 Tooth abscess can cause severe and constant pain that spreads to other areas such as the jawbone, neck, or ear. The pain may be described as throbbing and persistent.
2 Other common symptoms of a tooth abscess include discomfort with hot and cold temperatures, pressure when chewing or biting, fever, swelling in the face, cheek, or neck that can lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing, tender and swollen lymph nodes, foul odor in the mouth, and a sudden rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting fluid if the abscess ruptures. These symptoms may vary depending on the severity and location of the abscess, and it is important to seek prompt dental treatment if any of these symptoms are experienced.
Whenever to visit a doctor
1 See your dentist promptly if you have signs or symptoms of a tooth abscess. This includes tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, redness and swelling in the gums, or a pimple-like bump on the gums.
2 If you experience a fever and swelling in your face and can’t reach your dentist, go to an emergency room immediately. Other symptoms that require immediate attention include difficulty breathing or swallowing, as these may indicate a more serious infection that has spread to other areas of your body.
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Causes
Bacteria invade the dental pulp, causing a periapical tooth abscess. The dental pulp, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, is the innermost part of the tooth. The bacteria enter through a dental cavity or a chip or crack in the tooth, and spread down to the root. At the tip of the root, the bacterial infection can cause swelling and inflammation..
Risk factors
These elements might make you more likely to get a tooth abscess:
Here are three key points related to poor dental health:
1 Poor dental habits: Failing to take proper care of your teeth and gums, such as neglecting to brush twice a day and skipping flossing, can lead to dental problems. These problems may include tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth abscesses, as well as other dental and mouth-related complications.
2 High sugar diet: Consuming foods and drinks high in sugar, such as sweets and sodas, can contribute to dental cavities, which can eventually lead to tooth abscesses.
3 Dry mouth: Having a dry mouth can also increase the risk of tooth decay. This condition is often due to the side effects of certain medications or issues related to aging. To reduce the risk of tooth decay, individuals with dry mouth should drink plenty of water and speak to their healthcare provider about possible remedies
Complications
Treatment is necessary for a tooth abscess to go away. If left untreated, the abscess can rupture and make the pain feel better, but dental treatment is still required. If the abscess does not drain, the infection can spread to the jaw and other areas of the head and neck. An opening between the tooth abscess and the maxillary sinus can also develop, causing an infection in the sinus cavity. Furthermore, a life-threatening infection called sepsis can develop if a person with a weakened immune system leaves a tooth abscess untreated.
Prevention
To avoid tooth decay and prevent tooth abscess, it’s crucial to take good care of your teeth. Here are some key steps you can take:
1 Drink water that contains fluoride: Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. Drinking water that contains fluoride can help strengthen your teeth and make them more resistant to decay.
2 Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste: Brushing your teeth regularly is essential to maintaining good oral health. It’s recommended to brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste to help protect your teeth against decay.
3 Use dental floss or a water flosser to clean between your teeth on a daily basis: Brushing alone cannot remove all the food particles and plaque that accumulate between your teeth. Use dental floss or a water flosser to clean these hard-to-reach areas every day.
4 Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or whenever the bristles are frayed: Old, worn-out toothbrushes can harbor bacteria and may not effectively clean your teeth. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles begin to fray.
5 Eat healthy food, limiting sugary items and between-meal snacks: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your teeth healthy. Avoid sugary items and snacks between meals as they can contribute to tooth decay.
6 Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings: Regular dental visits can help detect and prevent tooth decay before it becomes a more significant issue. Your dentist can also provide professional cleanings to remove any plaque or tartar buildup.
7 Consider using an antiseptic or a fluoride mouth rinse to add an extra layer of protection against tooth decay: Using a mouth rinse can help reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth and provide an extra layer of protection against tooth decay. Choose an antiseptic or a fluoride mouth rinse that is recommended by your dentist.
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