The infection can affect surrounding tissues and cause severe pain.
A tooth abscess needs appropriate treatment, which can improve symptoms within days.
Left untreated, it can lead to hospitalization or become life-threatening.
Illustration by Joshua Seong. © Verywell, 2018.
Treatment options for a tooth abscess includesurgical drainage,root canal,tooth extraction, andantibiotics.
Illustration by Joshua Seong.
Periapical Abscess
A periapical abscess forms at the tip of the root of a tooth.
It results from a dental injury or cavity.
It is one of the most common dental emergencies.
This abscess punch in affects the top part of the tooth.
Periodontal Abscess
A periodontal abscess affects the bones and tissues that support the teeth.
It generally results fromperiodontitis, a severe throw in of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.
This is in contrast to periapical abscesses, which can be associated with large cavities and broken-down teeth.
Tooth Abscess Symptoms
The main symptom of a tooth abscess isthrobbing near the affected toothin the gums.
The pain will come on suddenly and get worse over time.
The pain will be continuous and may radiate into the jaw, ear, and neck.
You may feel pain when biting and chewing and have facial swelling and redness or discoloration.
Tooth abscess pain can be described as throbbing, shooting, gnawing, or sharp.
What Causes an Abscessed Tooth?
Other risk factors for tooth abscess include:
Whos More Likely to Develop an Abscessed Tooth?
Some people are at a higher risk for an abscessed tooth.
How Is an Abscessed Tooth Diagnosed?
A dentist can examine your gums for signs of infection, including swelling, tenderness, and redness.
You should still contact a dentist to treat the infection.
How Is an Abscessed Tooth Treated?
Root Canal and Endodontic Surgery
Root canals and tooth extractions areoral surgeryprocedures.
Your general dentist typically would not do these procedures unless they have additional training and dental board certifications.
You will likely be referred to an oral surgeon.
The tooth is then covered with a filling or dental crown.
If an abscessed tooth cannot be saved, it will need to be extracted (pulled).
The procedure involves local anesthesia or sedation, and the tooth is removed using surgical instruments.
Can a Tooth Abscess Go Away On Its Own?
A tooth abscess will not go away on its own.
The source of the infection needs to be removed and treated.
If the tooth pulp is infected, a root canal and crown will be necessary.
If a root canal cannot be performed, the tooth needs to be extracted.
Some complications require hospitalization and can be life-threatening.
This way, you avoid putting your health at risk.
Whats the Outlook for Someone With an Abscessed Tooth?
When addressed promptly, the outlook for a person with tooth abscess can be positive.
A dental procedure and antibiotics can cure a tooth abscess.
You will typically feel pain relief and fully recover within weeks.
If you suspect a dental abscess, reach out to a dentist right away.
The sooner you get checked out and treated, the sooner your life can return to normal.
Can You Prevent a Tooth Abscess?
Preventing a tooth abscess requiresgood oral hygiene habits.
These symptoms might indicate the dental infection is spreading to your face or neck.
The infection can spread to surrounding tissues and cause pain and swelling.
Tooth decay, gum disease, and trauma to the teeth or gums can cause tooth abscesses.
Without treatment, a dental abscess can spread to the jawbone, mouth, face, or neck.
This can lead to severe and life-threatening complications.
Treatment can manage the infection and its underlying cause.
Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent tooth abscesses and other dental problems.
You should see your dentist every six months for cleanings and dental screenings to address issues before they worsen.
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