Are you suffering from pain in your jaw, gums, or teeth? Have you noticed mouth sores, a bad taste in your mouth, and increased mouth sensitivity? You may be suffering from a tooth abscess. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this serious condition.
Why do we take good care of our oral health? Why do we have dental health routines in our home, and why are we supposed to visit our dentist every six months? To many, the main reason is to keep their pearly whites looking as dashing as can be. However, the most important reason is to prevent serious medical issues from developing, such as:
- Gingivitis
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Oral cancers
All of these are common oral health issues that we work to prevent by keeping our teeth and mouth clean and healthy. However, one of the most dangerous dental conditions that was not listed above is a tooth abscess. Keep reading to learn more about what a tooth abscess is, the symptoms, and how it is treated.
Dental Abscess Treatment and Family Dental Services in NE Calgary
At Marlborough Dental Centre, our team of qualified dentists and dental hygienists offer a wide range of family dental services, including dental exams, teeth cleanings, and emergency dental services. If you think that you may have a tooth abscess, or are interested in our wide range of affordable dental services, contact us today!
What Is An Abscessed Tooth?
An abscessed tooth, also known as a dental abscess, is a collection of pus that can form in and around the teeth and gums. They are caused by a bacterial infection in one of the many small pockets in the mouth, which can grow to be incredibly painful. A dental abscess is a serious oral health condition that, if left untreated, can result in severe and permanent harm to your mouth and body.
What are the Signs of a Tooth Abscess?
If you believe that you may have a tooth abscess, it is important that you schedule an emergency dental exam immediately. Here are some common signs of a tooth abscess to watch out for so that you can act accordingly:
- A painful throbbing toothache
- Increased tooth and gum sensitivity
- Bad taste in your mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth
- Swelling or redness in your face, neck, cheeks, or lymph nodes
- A mouth sore that is draining pus
- Swollen and red gums
- Fever or other ill symptoms
THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A TOOTH ABSCESS
How Serious is a Tooth Abscess?
A tooth abscess signals the sign of a severe infection in your mouth. As with an infection of any other part of your body, if left untreated, the infection can spread. When a tooth abscess is left untreated, the infection can spread to your jaw, neck, nasal cavity, and brain. In some cases, a tooth abscess can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate extreme medical attention. It is best to catch and treat a tooth abscess early on so that it is only a minor inconvenience rather than a life-threatening ordeal.
How does an Abscessed Tooth Develop?
The cause of an abscessed tooth is always due to bacteria getting into your mouth and multiplying. However, depending on the type of abscess, an abscessed tooth can develop in one of three ways.
Gingival Abscess: When bacteria starts to grow due to a foreign object being wedged in your gums.
Periapical Abscess: A cavity causes a hole in your teeth, by which bacteria can enter the soft inner portion of your teeth, growing and causing an abscessed tooth.
Periodontal Abscess: Gum diseases (periodontitis) can cause the teeth to separate, forming large holes where bacteria can grow and cause a tooth abscess.
What are the Treatment Options Available?
Depending on the severity, placement, and type of abscess, your dentist will likely use the following methods to remove the infection and alleviate pain:
- Antibiotics to help clear the infection so that other procedures can take place
- Removal of the tooth that is causing the abscess
- Draining the abscessed tooth via a small incision
- Root canal to assist in the draining of the abscessed tooth
- Remove the object causing the tooth abscess
How Can I Prevent a Dental Abscess?
A tooth abscess may be something that you will never need to take care of if you look after your oral health properly. Ensuring you have a good daily oral health routine at home and visiting your NE Calgary Dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups is the best way to avoid dental abscesses.
5 TIPS FOR TAKING CARE OF YOUR GUM HEALTH AT HOME
Call us Today!
If you think that you may be at risk for developing a tooth abscess, or if you want to learn more about our wide range of dental services, contact our NE Calgary Dental Clinic today! Book your appointment by calling us at 403-248-2066 or fill in our online contact form.
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