Tooth Abscess Diagnosis? Here's What You Need to Know

Having a toothache is never a pleasant experience, but we often don't think of it as a serious medical concern. However, when tooth or gum pain is accompanied by swelling, fever, and a foul taste in your mouth, it could be a sign of a more serious problem known as a tooth abscess.

Here's what you should know to avoid potentially serious negative outcomes that can come with a tooth abscess.

What is a Tooth Abscess?

A tooth abscess is a pocket of infection in or around a tooth that typically become filled with pus and can be very painful. There are two main types of abscesses:

Periapical

This type of abscess is most common. It occurs at the tip of the tooth's root and is often caused by untreated tooth decay that has reached the tooth's pulp and spread to the root.

Periodontal

A periodontal abscess affects the gums and supporting structures of the tooth, usually resulting from advanced gum disease or an object lodged in the gums.

Gingival

This type is technically not an abscess in the tooth itself but in the gums. It can be just as serious, however, and like other types of abscess, it should be treated right away.

Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess

The most common signs and symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

• Severe, persistent tooth pain that may radiate to the jaw, neck, or ear
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Swelling in the face or cheek
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever
• Bad breath and/or a bad taste in the mouth
• Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing

How Serious is a Dental Abscess?

If you experience any of these symptoms seek dental care right away. Left untreated, a dental abscess can lead to severe complications. The infection can potentially spread to bone and soft tissues in and around the face and neck, as well as to other parts of the body. In more serious cases, abscess can result in inflammation and infections in the brain and heart and can even lead to death.

Treatment Options for a Tooth Abscess

While an abscess can be serious if it is left alone too long, the good news is that most abscesses are recognized early on and can be easily treated before significant problems occur.

Treating a tooth abscess includes eliminate the infection and prevent it from spreading, as well as treating any underlying issues that may have contrubited to the formation of the abscess.

Depending on the type and severity of your abscess, treatment options may include the following.

• Antibiotics: In many cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection. Antibiotics are a temporary measure and can help stop the spread of infection, but they do not address the underlying cause of your abscess.
• Drainage: Your dentist or endodontist will make a tiny incision in the abscess to allow the pus to drain, relieving pain and pressure and helping to clear out the infection.
• Root canal therapy: If the infection has spread into the tooth's pulp, a root canal procedure may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
• Tooth extraction: In some very severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be the only option to treat a tooth abscess.

Follow-up care and good oral hygiene practices will help you to have a successful recovery and in preventing future abscesses.

Don't Ignore the Signs of a Tooth Abscess

A tooth abscess is a serious dental condition that requires immediate attention from a skilled dental professional.

If you suspect you may have an abscessed tooth, don't wait – call us today to schedule an evaluation and get the care you need ASAP.