What is an oral abscess. How does an oral abscess form. What are the different types of oral abscesses. What are the symptoms of an oral abscess. How can oral abscesses be treated. Are oral abscesses serious. Can oral abscesses be prevented.

Understanding Oral Abscesses: Causes and Formation

An oral abscess is a painful condition that occurs when bacteria enter and infect the soft tissues inside the mouth. This infection leads to the formation of a pus-filled swelling, which can be extremely uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if left untreated.

Oral abscesses typically develop due to:

• Dental injuries
• Irritation of oral tissues
• Untreated tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Impacted food or foreign objects

When bacteria infiltrate these vulnerable areas, the body’s immune response attempts to contain the infection by forming a barrier around it. This results in the characteristic swelling and pus accumulation associated with abscesses.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Oral Abscesses

Identifying an oral abscess early is crucial for prompt treatment. The most common symptoms include:

• Persistent, throbbing pain in the affected area
• Sensitivity to pressure and temperature changes
• Difficulty chewing or brushing teeth
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Fever
• Sinus pressure
• Bad taste in the mouth

Do oral abscesses always cause pain? While most abscesses are painful, some may develop with minimal discomfort. However, even painless abscesses require immediate attention to prevent complications.

The Three Types of Oral Abscesses

Oral abscesses are classified into three distinct types, each affecting different areas of the mouth:

1. Gingival Abscess

A gingival abscess forms in the gum tissue between the tooth and the gum line, near the neck of the tooth. This type of abscess typically occurs in healthy teeth without pre-existing periodontal issues and is often caused by food particles or foreign objects becoming lodged in the gum.

2. Periodontal Abscess

Periodontal abscesses are more advanced and occur in teeth with existing periodontal pockets and bone loss. Like gingival abscesses, they can be triggered by impacted food or foreign objects. Interestingly, periodontal abscesses may develop after a dental cleaning due to bacterial overgrowth in treated areas.

3. Periapical Abscess

A periapical abscess forms inside the tooth when the nerve is dead or dying. The infection starts at the tip of the tooth’s root and spreads to the surrounding bone. This type of abscess often requires root canal treatment or tooth extraction.

The Importance of Prompt Treatment for Oral Abscesses

Why is it crucial to treat oral abscesses quickly? Untreated abscesses can lead to several complications:

• Spread of infection to surrounding teeth and bone
• Formation of a fistula or sinus tract
• Development of a cyst in the jawbone
• Systemic infection affecting other parts of the body

In some cases, an untreated abscess may form a fistula, a tunnel-like passage that allows pus to drain. While this may temporarily relieve pain, it does not eliminate the underlying infection and requires professional treatment.

Diagnosis and Professional Treatment Options

How do dentists diagnose and treat oral abscesses? The diagnostic process typically involves:

• Visual examination of the affected area
• X-rays to assess bone involvement
• Probing to check for periodontal pockets

Treatment options may include:

1. Draining the abscess to relieve pressure and pain
2. Prescribing antibiotics to fight the infection
3. Performing a root canal if the tooth can be saved
4. Extracting the tooth in severe cases
5. Removing any cysts that have formed

The specific treatment plan will depend on the type and severity of the abscess, as well as the overall health of the affected tooth and surrounding tissues.

Home Care and Temporary Relief for Oral Abscesses

While professional treatment is essential, there are some steps you can take at home to manage the discomfort of an oral abscess:

• Rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
• Avoid hot or cold foods and beverages

Can salt water rinses cure an oral abscess? While salt water rinses may help draw out pus and provide temporary relief, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. Always consult a dentist for proper treatment of an oral abscess.

Preventing Oral Abscesses: Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene

How can you reduce your risk of developing oral abscesses? Practicing good oral hygiene is key:

• Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss at least once a day
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash
• Maintain a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods
• Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings
• Address dental issues promptly

By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing oral abscesses and other dental problems.

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Well-being

Why is treating oral abscesses important for your overall health? The connection between oral health and systemic health is well-established. Untreated oral infections can potentially lead to more serious health issues, including:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Respiratory infections
• Diabetes complications
• Pregnancy complications
• Cognitive decline in older adults

By promptly addressing oral abscesses and maintaining good oral hygiene, you’re not only protecting your mouth but also safeguarding your overall health and well-being.

The Role of Diet in Oral Health

How does your diet affect your risk of developing oral abscesses? A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and preventing dental issues that can lead to abscesses:

• Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages
• Consume calcium-rich foods for strong teeth and bones
• Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables to stimulate saliva production
• Stay hydrated to maintain proper oral pH levels
• Consider probiotics to promote beneficial oral bacteria

By making mindful dietary choices, you can create an oral environment that is less hospitable to harmful bacteria, reducing your risk of developing abscesses and other dental problems.

The Impact of Smoking on Oral Health

Does smoking increase your risk of oral abscesses? Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, can significantly impact oral health and increase the likelihood of developing abscesses:

• Reduces blood flow to gum tissues, impeding healing
• Weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight infections
• Increases the risk of gum disease and tooth loss
• Masks symptoms of oral health problems, delaying diagnosis and treatment

Quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco products altogether is one of the most impactful steps you can take to improve your oral health and reduce your risk of abscesses and other dental issues.

Advanced Treatment Options for Recurring Abscesses

What options are available for patients with recurring oral abscesses? For individuals who experience frequent abscesses, dentists may recommend more advanced treatment approaches:

• Comprehensive periodontal therapy
• Bone grafting to regenerate lost bone tissue
• Guided tissue regeneration to promote healing
• Dental implants to replace severely damaged teeth
• Orthodontic treatment to correct bite issues contributing to abscess formation

These advanced treatments aim to address underlying issues that may be contributing to recurrent abscesses, providing long-term solutions for improved oral health.

The Role of Genetics in Oral Health

Can genetic factors influence your susceptibility to oral abscesses? While oral hygiene and lifestyle factors play a significant role in abscess formation, genetic predisposition can also contribute to an increased risk:

• Inherited tooth structure anomalies
• Genetic variations affecting immune response
• Hereditary conditions impacting saliva production
• Genetic factors influencing periodontal disease susceptibility

Understanding your genetic risk factors can help you and your dentist develop a more targeted approach to preventing and managing oral health issues, including abscesses.

The Future of Oral Abscess Treatment: Emerging Technologies

What advancements are on the horizon for oral abscess treatment? The field of dentistry is continually evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging to improve diagnosis and treatment of oral abscesses:

• Advanced imaging techniques for earlier detection
• Targeted antibiotic delivery systems
• Stem cell therapies for tissue regeneration
• Photodynamic therapy to eliminate bacteria
• AI-assisted diagnosis and treatment planning

These emerging technologies hold promise for more effective, less invasive treatments for oral abscesses, potentially reducing recovery times and improving outcomes for patients.

The Importance of Patient Education in Preventing Oral Abscesses

How can improved patient education help reduce the incidence of oral abscesses? Empowering patients with knowledge about oral health is crucial for preventing abscesses and other dental issues:

• Proper brushing and flossing techniques
• Understanding the signs and symptoms of dental problems
• Awareness of the importance of regular dental check-ups
• Knowledge of dietary choices that promote oral health
• Understanding the link between oral health and overall well-being

By promoting comprehensive oral health education, dental professionals can help patients take a more proactive role in maintaining their oral health and preventing conditions like abscesses from developing.

The Economic Impact of Oral Health Issues

How do oral health problems like abscesses affect individuals and society economically? The financial burden of dental issues extends beyond immediate treatment costs:

• Lost productivity due to dental-related absences from work or school
• Increased healthcare costs for treating complications of untreated dental problems
• Economic disparities in access to preventive dental care
• Impact on quality of life and social interactions

Addressing oral health issues promptly and focusing on prevention can lead to significant cost savings for individuals and healthcare systems in the long run.

The Role of Teledentistry in Managing Oral Abscesses

How can teledentistry contribute to the management of oral abscesses? The growing field of teledentistry offers several benefits for patients dealing with dental issues:

• Remote consultations for initial assessment
• Guidance on home care and temporary relief measures
• Triage to determine the urgency of in-person treatment
• Follow-up care and monitoring of healing progress
• Improved access to dental care for underserved populations

While teledentistry cannot replace in-person treatment for oral abscesses, it can play a valuable role in early detection, patient education, and ongoing care management.

Psychological Aspects of Dealing with Oral Abscesses

How do oral abscesses impact patients psychologically? The experience of dealing with an oral abscess can have significant emotional and psychological effects:

• Anxiety about dental procedures
• Embarrassment or self-consciousness about appearance
• Frustration with recurring dental issues
• Depression related to chronic pain or discomfort
• Impact on self-esteem and social interactions

Addressing these psychological aspects is an important part of comprehensive care for patients dealing with oral abscesses. Dental professionals should be prepared to provide emotional support and referrals to mental health resources when necessary.

The Importance of Interdisciplinary Approach in Treating Oral Abscesses

Why is an interdisciplinary approach beneficial in managing complex oral abscess cases? Collaboration between various healthcare professionals can lead to more comprehensive and effective treatment:

• General dentists and oral surgeons for surgical interventions
• Endodontists for root canal treatments
• Periodontists for managing gum-related issues
• Radiologists for advanced imaging and diagnosis
• Infectious disease specialists for managing systemic infections

By taking a team-based approach, healthcare providers can address all aspects of a patient’s oral and overall health, leading to better outcomes and reduced risk of complications.

What is an Oral Abscess

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What is an Oral Abscess?

When the inside of your mouth gets hurt or irritated, bacteria may enter and cause an infection. Sometimes you will see a painful swelling filled with pus (a thick, yellowish fluid). If the pus can’t drain out, the area will become more swollen and painful. This is known as an abscess. Your body tries to keep a bacterial infection from spreading by forming a barrier around the infection. Since most abscesses, regardless of being gum or tooth, are painful, the majority of people will seek medical help immediately. Abscesses will not go away by themselves, so it is critical that you get help from a medical professional as soon as possible. However, it can be tricky to decipher whether what you’re experiencing is actually an abscess. Here are the common symptoms of a gum or tooth abscess.

What are the symptoms of an oral abscess?

The main symptom of an oral abscess is a throbbing or stabbing pain in the mouth that won’t subside. If you have a toothache, it may be the result of an abscess. Usually, the area of the mouth that has the abscess will be sensitive to chewing, and it will be difficult and painful to brush your teeth. Another symptom is swelling of the lymph nodes in your neck, which may cause pain when swallowing and is sometimes accompanied by a fever. Pressure in the sinuses can be another symptom of a gum or tooth related abscess. If you are experiencing symptoms like the ones described, seek professional medical help immediately. In rare cases, the infection caused by an abscess can lead to more serious health problems if left untreated.

What are the types of Abscesses and what should I expect?

Abscesses can form very quickly. Sometimes they form only one or two days after the infection starts. There are three types of abscesses:

• Gingival Abscess: The first type is called a gingival abscess because it is contained in the area of the gum between the tooth and gum that is closest to the “neck” of the tooth. The tooth usually doesn’t have preexisting pockets or bone loss, and often catches inflammation caused by food or foreign-body impact into the gum area around this particular tooth.
• Periodontal Abscess: The second and more advanced form of gum abscess is the periodontal abscess. This is associated with a tooth that already has a periodontal pocket and degree of bone loss. Like the gingival abscess, however, it can be caused by food or a foreign object impacted into the pocket around the tooth. This condition can develop after a dental cleaning where bacteria still overgrows despite having recently received treatment in the area.
• Periapical Abscess: The third oral abscess usually occurs inside the tooth. This happens when the tooth’s nerve is dead or dying. This type of abscess shows up at the tip of the tooth’s root, then spreads to the surrounding bone.

Most abscesses are painful, so people usually seek treatment right away. Sometimes the infection causes little or no pain. If an abscess is not treated, the infection can last for months or even years, so it’s important to not ignore the symptoms.

An untreated infection can damage the surrounding bone and teeth. A hollow tunnel sometimes forms through the bone and skin to allow pus to drain. This tunnel is called a fistula or “sinus tract.” You might see or feel this opening inside your mouth. It looks like a pimple. If you have pus draining through a fistula, you might notice a strange taste in your mouth. The buildup of pressure causes the pain of an abscess. Draining the abscess through a fistula reduces the pressure. The pain will disappear; however, the infection still needs to be treated.

Sometimes, an abscess that isn’t treated can form a fluid-filled bubble (cyst) in the jawbone. If the tooth is severely broken down and can’t be saved, the cyst may come out when the tooth is extracted. If the tooth can be saved, you will need a root canal to remove the infected nerve. If this treatment does not heal the cyst, you may need surgery to remove it. In rare cases, the infection that causes an abscess may spread and lead to serious health problems.

What can you do at home?

Abscesses are always serious because the infection may spread to other parts of the body. Call your dentist for an appointment. If you can see or feel a pimple-like swelling on your gum, rinse your mouth several times a day with a mild salt-water solution. Use half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water. This may help draw the pus out and relieve pressure. Even if the rinse seems to help, you still need to see your dentist as soon as possible.

What will your dentist do for your abscess?

Most gum abscesses will heal quickly after three things happen:

• The area is cleaned thoroughly.
• The trapped pus is allowed to escape.
• The infection is treated.

If a fistula has formed, your dentist will trace it back to the source of the infection. Your dentist will insert a flexible, thin piece of material into the fistula. This will appear on an X-ray and show the dentist where the fistula leads. Once your dentist cleans out the infection, the fistula usually will close on its own.

If the infection started inside a tooth, your dentist will make a small hole in the tooth. This allows the abscess to drain. The tooth will need root canal treatment, followed by a filling or a crown.

If an abscess is very large or the tooth is badly damaged, you may need to have the tooth removed. A large abscess often will need to be drained. The dentist makes a hole in the gum through the bone that provides an exit path for any fluid or pus. This will reduce the risk of further spread of the infection.

People with severe periodontal disease may have abscesses. Draining them helps the immediate problem. However, the periodontal disease needs to be treated to prevent another infection. Your dentist may give you a prescription for antibiotics and painkillers. These drugs will help the abscess heal and keep the infection from spreading.

Do you have any questions about oral abscesses? Call Westermeier Martin Dental care to schedule an appointment with your dentist 716-508-4547.

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I think I’ve got an abscess in my mouth! What do I do now?

26th April 2022 | Posted by: Vanessa Giraud

Have you woken up to throbbing pain and a swollen face?

Or have you got a raised lump on your gum that hurts? Perhaps you feel like you’ve got a temperature too?

Getting an abscess is hard, as it can cause swelling and pain. You may be able to reduce the pain temporarily, but it must be checked as infection can spread.

Be especially careful of infection if you have other issues, such as a heart condition or diabetes. If your dentist is not available, check NHS 111 online to find out where the nearest emergency dental facility is.

An abscess is a condition that needs treatment. It’s likely that a health professional will prescribe antibiotics for you until a dental appointment is available.

How do I know if it is an abscess in my mouth?

If you’re experiencing throbbing pain in your mouth, and there’s swelling, then the chances are you have an abscess in your mouth. An oral abscess is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. It’s painful and needs treatment.

• pain, tenderness and swelling around the infected area in the mouth.
• pain spreading to the jaw, ear or neck.
• gums may be swollen and red.
• teeth will feel especially sensitive to pressure and temperature.
• pus may ooze between the infected tooth and the gum line.

Is it URGENT?

• Bleeding that will not stop?
• Swelling of the mouth or throat which is getting worse?
• Trauma to the face, mouth or teeth?
• A permanent tooth knocked out?

Yes? All these are matters of urgency. Don’t wait to call for help. The NHS emergency helpline is there 24/7 for advice or help:

• In England call 111

What do I do now?

The first thing to do is get professional help. An abscess won’t go away without treatment. During the practice’s opening hours, your dentist should be able to fit you in for an emergency appointment the same day, but call early as the spaces soon fill up. Practices usually have special arrangements too for patients who need treatment out of hours. If you subscribe to a monthly payment plan with your dental practice, that usually covers emergency call-out charges too. Even out of hours, it’s a good idea to call your own practice, as the answer phone will offer helpful information. Remember – if you have swelling that is continuing to increase and threatens your breathing, treat it as a dental emergency. Because an abscess is a bacterial infection, it’s important to get it seen as soon as possible so that treatment can begin. Don’t be tempted to delay, take a few pain-killers, and hope it’ll go away.

• Although sepsis is rare, it is a real consequence of infection, including oral infections, and can be dangerous.

What can I do to help with the pain until I can see a dentist?

• Rinse your mouth with salty water at room temperature.
• Avoid food and drink that is sugary, spicy, too warm or too cold.
• Eat soft foods, to avoid pressure.
• Ask a pharmacist for advice on pain medication.
• Check any pain medication you have been prescribed, and follow the recommended dosage.
• Take care if you take non-prescription painkillers. Follow the instructions for use and don’t take too often.
• Ask a healthcare professional about compatibility with other medications.
• Remember:
  • a painkiller only disguises the problem.
  • do not rely on them, and
  • do not avoid treatment.

Why do abscesses happen?

There are several reasons why you may have got an abscess in your mouth. Most often it’s a sign your oral care isn’t meeting your needs. There’s no need to feel embarrassed about that, as people need different levels of oral hygiene according to the condition of their dental enamel and their general health. That said, we should all maintain a minimum regime of brushing for two minutes last thing at night, and at one other time during the day, as well as a daily floss. Because an abscess occurs when bacteria penetrate the pulp of a tooth (periapical abscess) or colonise the margins between the tooth and gum (periodontal abscess):

• a diet that is too sugary increases bacterial growth in the mouth.
• broken or chipped teeth open pathways for infection.
• sensitive teeth have tiny cracks that allow bacteria to penetrate through the tough enamel into dental pulp.
• symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding and soreness, were disregarded.
• difficult to clean wisdom teeth become infected.
• a dental procedure can also cause infection.

What will my dentist do next?

Root canal therapy can often save an infected tooth.

Your dentist will clear the infection by draining the abscess, and may prescribe a course of appropriate antibiotics. Moving forward, sometimes the tooth can be saved with root canal therapy. In some cases, however, removing the tooth is the only safe option.

• Answers to your root canal treatment concerns

As everyone has individual dental needs, your dentist is the best person to assess the condition of your teeth and gums, plan your treatment, and restore your oral health.

Will I lose my tooth?

In some cases an extraction is the most straightforward solution. Your dentist will always take times to discuss your options with you.

“Abscess in gum above loose crown: Saw my dentist after I developed an abscess in my gum above a loose crown which had an infection in the root! Had my crown and tooth pulled out with a squirt of anaesthetic and I hardly felt it had been done! Had hardly any bleeding and no pain afterwards, a brilliant job done!” JJ – a SpaDental Plymouth patient

If you do need to have an extraction, your dentist will let you know how the gap can be replaced by either a fixed or removable restoration, such as a bridge, a denture or an implant, depending on each individual case.

• Somerset? SpaDental Chard emergency
• Devon or Cornwall? SpaDental Plymouth
• Gloucestershire? SpaDental Tewkesbury emergency
• Shropshire or Staffordshire? SpaDental Whitchurch

Why are dental checks important?

Surprisingly, knowing how painful an abscess can be, in some cases it is possible to be unaware that you have a dental abscess. Sometimes an abscess is only spotted by a dentist in an x-ray. Left untreated the abscess can go on to cause further infections. Regular visits to the dentist will help you to maintain optimum oral health. During every check up, your dentist will do a systematic review of your mouth, looking for any signs of dental decay, gum disease or ulcerations. Check-ups are the way to keep dentally fit with individually tailored and monitored care.

How do I stop an abscess happening again?

To prevent another dental abscess, it’s important to review your oral hygiene practices. Your dentist and dental hygienist can help put you back on track to improved oral health. Many dental practices offer patients the opportunity to pay for regular check-ups and hygiene appointments on a monthly basis. It’s worth finding out how to become a plan patient as many people, especially those who avoid dentists, find that if they make the financial investment they are more likely to attend regular appointments.

People also ask:

• • My filling fell out. What do I do?
  • I’ve knocked out a tooth. What do I do?
  • Can an oral infection cause sepsis?
  • My gums are bleeding. Is it serious?

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July, 2023

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Abscess of the oral cavity, treatment, diagnosis and prosthetics

• Author: Naumovich Yuliya Yakovlevna
• Specialty: Dentist-Orthodontist
• Category: Doctor of the highest qualification category

Table of contents

1. What is oral abscess?
2. Varieties of abscess by localization
3. Diagnosis
4. Causes of abscess development in the oral cavity
5. Symptoms
6. Treatment of oral abscess
7. Prognosis and prevention of oral abscess

What is an oral abscess?

Oral abscess is an acute inflammatory disease characterized by the formation and accumulation of pus in the tissues of the gums, tongue or cheeks. An abscess is accompanied by local swelling and compaction of soft tissues, severe pain on palpation, fever and general weakness. The disease is diagnosed by a dentist after a visual examination of the tissues, after which an urgent surgical intervention is required: opening the abscess, followed by cleaning and taking anti-inflammatory drugs.

Oral abscess is one of the most common complications in the practice of surgical dentistry. It can be seen in patients of all ages. Untimely treatment can lead to the transition of inflammation to the chronic stage. Against its background, sepsis and phlegmon may develop. That is why if you experience the slightest symptoms of an abscess, you should immediately visit the dentist.

Types of abscess by location

An abscess is classified based on the site of inflammation. The following types of pathology are distinguished:

Gingival abscess

The most common variety, inflammation occurs near a specific tooth. If left untreated, an abscess can provoke: leakage of pus from the resulting fistula, putrid odor from the mouth and intoxication of the body.

Abscess of the floor of the mouth

Formed under the tongue, which causes severe pain and discomfort during communication or eating. With spontaneous opening of the abscess, the infected fluid is poured into the oral cavity and can provoke a new focus in the pharynx and neck.

Abscess of the palate

Occurs against the background of not completely cured or transferred periodontitis of the teeth of the upper jaw. In the future, inflammation can spread to the peritonsillar region and other tissues of the palate, which will lead to osteomyelitis of the palatal plate.

Abscess of the cheek

The depth of the lesion of this mucosal area determines the localization of inflammation, which can sit inside the cheek or go to the outer surface. Such abscesses are extremely dangerous, because the infection can affect nearby facial organs and tissues.

Tongue abscess

Obvious signs include swelling of the tongue, pain during meals, difficulty communicating and breathing. This type of abscess, according to doctors, is the most dangerous and requires immediate treatment.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of an oral abscess is carried out by a visual examination of the patient’s mucous tissues by a dentist. Arbitrary opening or application of antibacterial drugs is strictly prohibited! This can aggravate and complicate the course of the disease. Before contacting a specialist, the patient can only do mouth rinses with an antiseptic solution and take analgesics. To relieve swelling of the cheek, you can apply cold to its outer surface.

Causes of oral abscess development

Oral abscess occurs as a complication of advanced periodontitis and periodontitis. These diseases are characterized by damage to the teeth and gums, followed by the formation of pockets in the periodontium. They accumulate pathogenic microorganisms that provoke inflammation. Among other things, an abscess can occur due to infection in a damaged area of ​​\u200b\u200bsoft tissue (trauma, syringe needle, instrument). The cause of the disease is often staphylococcal and streptococcal tonsillitis, as well as boils on the face.

Inflammation in the oral cavity also appears as a complication after the flu or SARS, which weaken the immune system, as a result of which the body is not able to fight the infection.

Symptoms

Abscess is characterized by rapid development. Initially, the patient may be disturbed only by minor bouts of pain, similar to the sensations that arise during caries or periodontitis. Subsequently, the pain is localized in one place and gradually increases. In a specific place, there is swelling, sometimes a neoplasm on the gum, sometimes reaching the size of a walnut. If the inflammation is localized closer to the outer surface, then swelling and redness can be observed with the naked eye. If you notice the first symptoms, we recommend that you consult a dentist.

An abscess of the tongue is characterized by an increase in the volume of the organ, difficulty in swallowing, chewing, and even suffocation. Any abscess is accompanied by fever, deterioration and general weakness, insomnia, loss of appetite. The progression of the disease leads to a breakthrough of the abscess, which is manifested in a decrease in temperature, a decrease in swelling and an improvement in general well-being. However, there is no reason to stop treatment, as inflammation can continue and develop into a chronic form. This can lead to loss of teeth, sepsis and phlegmon.

Oral abscess treatment

Abscess treatment requires surgery. In order to eliminate the infectious focus and stop the spread of inflammation, the dentist-surgeon in stages:

• opens the abscess;
• drains the cavity;
• cleans the pocket;
• rarely sutures if the incision is large.

After removing the pus, the patient’s health improves, the geometry of the face is restored. Taking antibiotics, antihistamines, immunostimulants and vitamin complex significantly speed up the healing process. Sometimes a doctor may prescribe physiotherapy procedures (UHF therapy and fluctuorization).

For some time, the patient needs to exclude solid food from the diet and follow the rules of a healthy diet.

Prognosis and prevention of oral abscess

The success of oral abscess treatment depends on the stage of the disease at which the patient seeks help and how strong the body’s defense mechanism is. With timely treatment, the prognosis for the elimination of inflammation is quite favorable. In the absence of complications, strong immunity and a well-conducted opening of the focus, an abscess of the oral cavity can be cured in a couple of weeks.

Prevention of the disease consists in observing the following recommendations:

• regular brushing of teeth and professional oral hygiene at least once every six months;
• minimizing the risk of mucosal injury;
• timely treatment of caries and periodontal disease;
• preventive dental check-up once every 6 months.

Abscess of the oral cavity – symptoms, causes, treatment, prevention, prognosis

Abscess of the oral cavity is an inflammatory disease in which there is an accumulation of pus in the tissues of the oral cavity. It can be the gum, tongue, cheek. With an abscess, there is localized swelling and thickening of tissues, significant pain when pressed, weakness, fever. The dentist diagnoses the disease based on the results of a visual examination of the patient’s oral cavity and the presence of signs of tissue inflammation. With an abscess, immediate surgical intervention is indicated. This is the opening of the abscess and cleaning the site of the lesion. Then the doctor prescribes treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs.

Abscess is one of the most common problems in oral surgery. Patients can be people of any age. Usually, an abscess is a consequence of a complicated dentoalveolar pathology, but it is also observed with mucosal damage or infectious diseases.

Untimely provision of medical care leads to the transition of the disease to a chronic form, to such undesirable consequences as phlegmon or sepsis. Self-medication in this case is strictly prohibited. To avoid serious complications, be sure to consult a doctor at the first sign of illness.

Typical causes

An abscess of the oral cavity is usually caused by complications of dental pathologies, for example, periodontitis or periodontal disease that has not been treated in a timely manner. In such cases, the periodontal junctions are destroyed and periodontal pockets appear. They serve as a localization for the rapid reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms that provoke inflammatory phenomena.

Also, the cause of the disease can be an accidental infection in the wound when the mucous membrane is damaged. This situation can occur during anesthesia with a syringe needle or as a result of an injury. Furuncles on the face, inflammatory diseases of the throat can provoke the progression of an abscess. It was noted that abscesses often developed with influenza or other similar diseases. This can be explained by the general weakening of human immunity.

As a rule, the cause of an oral abscess is an infectious lesion provoked by more than 3-5 microorganisms. Typical agents provoking the development of the disease are usually staphylococci, streptococci and gram-negative anaerobic flora (Eikenellacorrodens, Porphyromonasgingivalis, Enterobacteriaceae spp., etc.).

Types of abscess depending on the location

According to the localization, the following types of abscesses of the oral cavity are distinguished:

Gingival abscess, its localization – a place next to a certain tooth. This option is the most common and typical. If there is no appropriate treatment, it can develop into extensive inflammation or into the chronic stage. At the same time, episodic relapses, pus discharge, bad breath, general intoxication are observed.

Abscess of the floor of the mouth located in the area under the tongue. This type of disease is characterized by intense pain during communication and while eating. If the abscess breaks by itself, a possible ingress of pus can provoke the appearance of new foci of inflammation.

A palatal abscess is usually caused by periodontal disease in the maxillary teeth. It is dangerous because the infection can go to the nearby tissues of the palate and peritonsillar zone, progression of osteomyelitis of the palatine plate is possible.

Cheek abscess varies in depth. In accordance with this, it is localized either inside from the mucosal side, or on the outer surface of the cheek. This type of abscess is extremely dangerous. The reason for this is the likelihood of its spread to the nearest tissues of the face.

Tongue abscess is characterized by swelling of the tongue, difficulty eating and speaking. It happens that it is difficult for the patient to breathe. Such an abscess is very dangerous. At the first sign of the disease, immediate hospitalization is required.

Symptoms of the disease

An abscess of the oral cavity usually develops in a short time. First, there are minor pain manifestations, similar in nature to the signs of periodontitis. In this case, pain is concentrated in the area of ​​​​a particular tooth and is felt more strongly when biting. Then a very painful, compacted swelling appears in the area of ​​​​inflammation. Visually, it looks like a rounded bulge on the surface of the gums. Sometimes such a seal can be the size of an average plum.

Abscess of the tongue progresses rapidly. Increasing pain in the tissues of the tongue. There is swelling of the tongue: its size increases, it is difficult for the patient to speak and eat. The disease is dangerous because in especially severe cases, suffocation is possible. Often, inflammation is localized under the mucous membrane of the soft tissues of the oral cavity or under the surface of the skin. In this case, visually during an external examination, redness and swelling in the inflammation zone are visible.

Any oral abscess causes a deterioration in the general condition of the patient. At the same time, body temperature rises, difficulties with falling asleep appear, appetite worsens. The increase in inflammation can lead to spontaneous opening of the abscess. The outflow of pus relieves the patient’s condition. The patient’s pain sensations decrease, the tumor subsides, the temperature and well-being normalize. But in this case, you can not calm down, as the risk of complications is high.

Possible complications

It happens that the inflammatory process does not stop, but continues and passes into the chronic stage. Inflammation can affect nearby tissues. An abscess of the oral cavity is fraught with many serious complications. For example, it can lead to the loss of one or more teeth, to the development of phlegmon and sepsis. To exclude the occurrence of undesirable consequences, you should immediately consult a doctor to prescribe appropriate therapy.

Diagnosis

Oral abscess is diagnosed by visual examination of the patient. The doctor, based on an assessment of the condition of the mucous membrane, makes a diagnosis. It is strictly forbidden to wait for a spontaneous breakthrough of the abscess. You should not self-medicate and take antibacterial drugs on your own. To relieve pain, you can take an anesthetic tablet before going to a medical facility. A warm solution of antiseptics can be used to rinse the mouth.

Surgery is mandatory. To eliminate the focus of inflammation, the doctor opens the abscess. In order to prevent the infection from spreading, the surgeon puts a drainage tube and treats the wound with an antiseptic. As a rule, there is no need to suture after such an operation: the incision is usually small.

When the pus is removed, the patient feels better. The pain subsides, the swelling begins to subside, the face takes on its usual normal appearance. However, if the abscess of the oral cavity has gone too far, the recovery process can be lengthy.

After the operation, the patient is prescribed antibiotics. You should also take antihistamines and immunostimulants, vitamins, minerals. Sometimes physiotherapy procedures are also prescribed. Among them are fluctuorization or UHF. After surgery, you should not eat solid food for some time. Also, the patient is advised to eat right.

Prognosis and preventive measures

Oral abscess usually ends well. To do this, the patient should immediately consult a doctor when the first symptoms of the disease appear. The general condition of the patient is also important. It is critical to start treatment as soon as possible. This will significantly increase the chances of a successful solution to the problem. In the case of timely surgical intervention and the absence of complications, the abscess of the oral cavity is cured within 1-2 weeks.

To avoid the risk of oral abscess, good hygiene is required. It is necessary to try to prevent injuries of the oral mucosa, in the presence of periodontal disease, consult a doctor in time.

References

• Facial skin abscess.