A dental abscess occurs when an infection is present, and it can cause significant pain. As a result, it’s important to seek a dentist’s help promptly if you suspect you’re dealing with this issue. Here’s what you need to know.

What Exactly Is a Dental Abscess?

An abscess is a pocket inside the teeth or gums that is filled with pus. The pus forms as the result of an ongoing and untreated bacterial infection. Periapical abscesses develop at the tip of the tooth’s root, while periodontal abscesses form in the gums along the sides of the root and may spread to nearby bones and tissues. Gingival abscesses develop on the gums.

How Do They Form?

The predominant cause of an abscess is the presence of bacteria. Those that impact the tip of the root enter the tooth via an untreated cavity. Periodontal problems are usually the result of gum disease, while gingival issues can form if a foreign object, like a piece of popcorn, is embedded in the gum.

What Are the Symptoms?

You may experience a severe toothache that does not respond to medication or that spreads to the ears, jaw, or neck. Sensitivity to extreme temperatures is also common.

If the infection worsens, the lymph nodes in your jaw or neck will feel enlarged, and swelling may be present in the area of the abscess. Upon rupturing, the abscess releases the pus in the mouth, which may have a potent odor and taste salty.

How Can They Be Prevented?

It’s critical to see your dentist at the first sign of trouble so you can avoid more serious effects. After ordering an X-ray of the affected area, your dental care provider will determine the next steps. It may be possible to drain the fluid and clean it with saline.

In more serious cases, you’ll need a root canal to remove the infection. If the tooth isn’t salvageable, it will need to be extracted. Antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases to clear up any lingering infection.
 

When you need a reliable dentist in Oconto County, WI, contact Ronald W. Ristow, D.D.S., L.L.C. Proudly serving adults and children in the area for more than 20 years, the dental clinic offers a variety of services designed to improve oral health. Turn to them for general cleaning, teeth whitening, dental implants, veneers, and bridges. Visit the website to learn more about how they will help, or call (920) 846-3163 to schedule an appointment. Text JOIN to (920) 249-5938 to opt-in to the Ronald W. Ristow DDS text messaging list.