28 Aug Causes and Treatment of Dental Abscess

Introduction: The dental abscess is nothing but a formation of pus inside the teeth or gums. This Abscess forms as a result of the bacteria that accumulate in the soft pulp of the tooth. The bacteria live in the sticky substance called plaque that forms on teeth when we eat, combining with saliva and bacteria. This plaque harms both the teeth and gums. And if the spread of plaque is not checked at the budding stages it might spread to the surrounding teeth and gums. Here are some common dental abscess symptoms: Severe Toothache, Swelling, Tooth Sensitivity, Pus Formation, Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste, Difficulty or Painful Chewing, and Fever. This may eventually lead to tooth Abscesses. Here are some common dental abscess antibiotics: Penicillin, Clindamycin, and Metronidazole.

Its causes: This happens when a dental infection spreads unchecked. The bacteria in the plaque infect the tooth as well. Dental abscesses can be dangerous if left untreated or if the infection spreads. Here are some potential risks and complications associated with untreated dental abscesses: Spread of Infection, Facial Cellulitis, Ludwig’s Angina, and Osteomyelitis. The 2 below are well-known causes of a dental abscess.

Periapical abscess: The bacteria make their way into the tooth through cavities caused by tooth decay and caries. Caries break down the dentine present under the enamel. And if neglected the hole will penetrate the soft inside pulp of the tooth and causes severe infection. This condition is called pulpitis. And as this progresses the bacteria reaches the bone that supports the tooth leading to the formation of a Periapical abscess.

Periodontal abscess: This is caused when the plaque affects the gums causing periodontitis. The gums eventually become inflamed which causes the gum that supports and holds the teeth to loosen its grip over the tooth and slowly give way. And when the periodontal ligament separates itself from the root of the tooth, a small gap is formed called a periodontal pocket. The external dirt and bacteria keep entering this periodontal pocket and lead to a condition called periodontal abscess.

By prescribing antibiotics when periodontitis is left unattended can lead to periodontitis abscess: Sometimes the periodontal abscess is caused by certain dental procedures that accidentally cause periodontal pockets. And sometimes the antibiotics that are prescribed if there is untreated periodontitis are known to cause periodontitis abscess.

Treatment: If you feel you have periodontitis then you must visit your dentist immediately. And especially if you have swallowing or breathing problems then you must first go to the emergency department in your hospital. And visit your family doctor (or a general physician) who may prescribe medication and even advise self-care and some pain management and may guide you toward the best and fastest way of getting emergency treatment. Here are some steps that may be involved in curing dental abscess: See a dentist, Drainage of the abscess, Antibiotics, Root canal treatment, Tooth extraction, and Pain management. Below are four treatment options for dental abscesses.

How to Treat a Periapical Abscess: Root canal therapy is used to remove the abscess. A hole is drilled into the dead tooth to extract the pus. And the damaged tissue if any will also be removed from the pulp. After the procedure, a root filling will be inserted to prevent further infection and complication.

Treating periodontal abscess: The abscess and the pocket will be thoroughly cleaned. The outer surface of the root of the tooth below the gum line will be smoothened out by a process called scaling. This process heals the tooth and even prevents other infections from affecting the tooth and gums.

Surgery: If there is repeated occurrence of infection among patients with Periapical abscess then you may have to get the dead tissue to be removed surgically. And those who are suffering from periodontal abscesses with recurring infections should get their gum tissues reshaped and get rid of their periodontal pocket.

Pain management: Over-the-counter pain killers are known to alleviate the pain till you see a dentist. Some common and effective pain killers are Aspirin, ibuprofen or Tylenol. There are some painkillers that should not be taken. So discuss with your dentist and explain to him your condition clearly whether you are an asthmatic if you have stomach ulcers, or your age if you are still young, and if you are pregnant or nursing.

Conclusion: A dental abscess occurs when a bacterial infection within the tooth, gum, or jaw triggers the formation of pus. Tooth abscesses are caused by cavities, gum problems, or injuries to the mouth. If neglected the bacterial infection that causes the abscess can spread to other parts of the body. This can result in serious complications. And a person who has symptoms of a tooth abscess should see their dentist as soon as possible. By providing the right care, it is possible to treat both the abscess and the main problem causing it. Practicing good oral hygiene and regular dental cleaning can thwart a tooth abscess. Facial swelling during a dental abscess is a common symptom. The infection can cause inflammation and the accumulation of fluid in the surrounding tissues, leading to swelling in the face.