What are the signs of a gum abscess. How is a gum abscess diagnosed and treated. What causes a gum abscess to form. Can a gum abscess heal on its own. When should you see a dentist for a gum abscess.

Understanding Gum Abscesses: What You Need to Know

A gum abscess, also known as a periodontal abscess, is a painful condition that occurs when bacteria in the mouth cause an infection in the space between the teeth and gums. This pocket of pus can lead to serious complications if left untreated, making early detection and treatment crucial for maintaining oral health.

Gum abscesses differ from tooth abscesses, which affect the area surrounding a tooth. While both are dental emergencies, gum abscesses specifically target the gum tissue and can have far-reaching consequences for your overall oral health.

Key Characteristics of Gum Abscesses

• Localized infection in the gum tissue
• Formation of a pus-filled pocket
• Potential to spread to surrounding tissues
• Requires prompt dental intervention

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Gum Abscesses

Understanding the root causes of gum abscesses can help in prevention and early detection. Several factors contribute to the development of these painful infections:

Poor Oral Hygiene and Periodontitis

Inadequate oral care leads to the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria on teeth. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can cause periodontitis, an inflammatory condition of the gums. This inflammation creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, potentially resulting in abscess formation.

Deep Periodontal Pockets

As gum disease progresses, it can create deep pockets around the teeth. These spaces become perfect breeding grounds for bacteria, especially when food particles and plaque become trapped within them. The accumulation of bacteria in these pockets significantly increases the risk of abscess formation.

Compromised Immune System

A weakened immune system can make it difficult for your body to fight off infections, including those in the mouth. Factors that may reduce your body’s defenses include chronic stress, fatigue, and underlying health conditions. People with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to developing gum abscesses and other oral infections.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Gum Abscess

Unlike some oral conditions that may go unnoticed in their early stages, gum abscesses typically cause noticeable and often severe symptoms. Being aware of these signs can help you seek timely treatment and prevent complications.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

• Persistent, severe pain in the affected area
• Swelling and redness of the gums
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
• Pain while chewing
• Loose tooth near the abscess
• Bad taste in the mouth (often due to pus discharge)
• Visible pus discharge
• Fever (in some cases)

Is a gum abscess always painful? While most gum abscesses cause significant discomfort, the level of pain can vary. Some individuals may experience intense, throbbing pain, while others might notice a more persistent, dull ache. Regardless of the pain intensity, any suspected gum abscess should be evaluated by a dentist promptly.

Diagnosing a Gum Abscess: What to Expect at the Dentist

If you suspect you have a gum abscess, it’s crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the infection from spreading and reduce the risk of complications. Here’s what you can expect during your dental visit:

Visual Examination

Your dentist will carefully examine your gums, looking for signs of infection such as swelling, redness, and any visible pus. They may gently probe the area to assess sensitivity and pain levels.

Dental X-rays

X-rays play a crucial role in diagnosing gum abscesses and assessing their severity. They can reveal:

• The extent of periodontal disease
• Presence of infected tooth pulp
• Any bone loss resulting from the infection

Discussion of Symptoms and Medical History

Your dentist will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and any factors that might have contributed to the abscess. They may also inquire about your overall health and any medications you’re taking, as these can influence treatment options.

How long does it take to diagnose a gum abscess? In most cases, a dentist can diagnose a gum abscess during a single appointment. The combination of visual examination, X-rays, and symptom discussion usually provides enough information for an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Gum Abscesses

Once diagnosed, prompt treatment of a gum abscess is essential to prevent the spread of infection and alleviate pain. The primary goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection and address any underlying dental issues that may have contributed to the abscess formation.

Draining the Abscess

The first step in treating a gum abscess is usually to drain the pus pocket. This procedure involves:

1. Applying a local anesthetic to numb the area
2. Making a small incision in the abscess
3. Allowing the pus to drain
4. Cleaning the area thoroughly

Draining the abscess provides immediate relief from pressure and pain while allowing the infection to begin healing.

Deep Cleaning: Scaling and Root Planing

To address the root cause of the abscess and prevent recurrence, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. This involves:

• Removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line
• Smoothing the root surfaces to discourage future bacterial buildup
• Eliminating bacteria and toxins from the periodontal pockets

Antibiotic Therapy

In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection. These may be administered orally or applied directly to the affected area. Antibiotics can help control the spread of infection and support the body’s natural healing processes.

Advanced Treatments for Severe Cases

For more severe gum abscesses or those that have caused significant damage, additional treatments may be necessary:

• Tooth extraction: If the abscess has severely damaged the surrounding bone or the tooth itself
• Root canal therapy: If the infection has spread to the tooth pulp
• Bone or tissue regeneration procedures: To address any loss of bone or gum tissue due to the infection

How long does it take for a gum abscess to heal after treatment? The healing time can vary depending on the severity of the abscess and the treatment method. Generally, patients experience significant improvement within a few days to a week after treatment. However, complete healing may take several weeks, especially if extensive dental work was required.

Preventing Gum Abscesses: Maintaining Optimal Oral Health

While gum abscesses can be effectively treated, prevention is always the best approach. By maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing dental issues promptly, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing a gum abscess.

Essential Oral Hygiene Practices

• Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if bristles are frayed

Regular Dental Check-ups

Schedule regular dental examinations and professional cleanings, typically every six months. These visits allow your dentist to:

• Detect early signs of gum disease or other oral health issues
• Remove tartar buildup that can’t be eliminated through regular brushing
• Provide personalized advice on improving your oral hygiene routine

Addressing Dental Issues Promptly

Don’t ignore signs of dental problems such as tooth pain, sensitivity, or bleeding gums. Seeking early treatment for these issues can prevent them from progressing into more serious conditions like gum abscesses.

Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle choices can impact your oral health and increase your risk of gum abscesses:

• Quit smoking or using tobacco products
• Maintain a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods
• Stay hydrated to promote saliva production, which helps neutralize bacteria
• Manage stress levels, as chronic stress can weaken your immune system

Can you prevent all gum abscesses through good oral hygiene? While excellent oral care significantly reduces the risk of gum abscesses, some factors, such as genetic predisposition to gum disease or certain medical conditions, may still increase your susceptibility. However, maintaining good oral hygiene remains the most effective way to minimize your risk.

Complications of Untreated Gum Abscesses

Leaving a gum abscess untreated can lead to serious health complications. The infection can spread to other parts of the body, potentially causing life-threatening conditions. Understanding these risks emphasizes the importance of prompt treatment.

Potential Complications

• Spread of infection to surrounding teeth and bone
• Development of a dental fistula (an abnormal passage from the abscess to the skin surface)
• Cellulitis (a serious skin infection that can spread to other parts of the face and neck)
• Ludwig’s angina (a rare but severe infection of the tissues under the tongue)
• Sepsis (a life-threatening systemic infection)
• Osteomyelitis (infection of the bone)

How quickly can a gum abscess lead to complications? The progression of a gum abscess can vary, but in some cases, complications can develop rapidly, within days or weeks. Factors such as the individual’s overall health, the virulence of the bacteria involved, and the location of the abscess can influence how quickly complications may arise.

Signs of Spreading Infection

Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate the infection is spreading:

• Fever or chills
• Swelling in the face or neck
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Severe pain that radiates to the ear, jaw, or neck
• General feeling of illness or fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Living with and Managing Gum Health After an Abscess

Recovering from a gum abscess is just the beginning of maintaining long-term oral health. After treatment, it’s crucial to adopt practices that will prevent future abscesses and promote overall gum health.

Follow-up Care

Your dentist will likely schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and ensure the infection has been fully resolved. These visits may include:

• Re-examination of the affected area
• Additional cleaning if necessary
• Adjustments to your oral hygiene routine
• Discussion of any ongoing symptoms or concerns

Long-term Gum Health Strategies

To maintain healthy gums and prevent future abscesses:

• Implement and stick to a rigorous oral hygiene routine
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and consider an electric toothbrush for more effective cleaning
• Incorporate interdental cleaning tools like water flossers or interdental brushes
• Consider using a gum-health focused toothpaste or mouthwash
• Stay vigilant for early signs of gum problems and seek prompt dental care when needed

Dietary Considerations

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining gum health:

• Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages
• Incorporate foods rich in vitamins C and D, which support gum health
• Stay hydrated to promote saliva production
• Consider probiotics, which may help maintain a healthy balance of oral bacteria

How long should you be extra cautious about your gum health after an abscess? While maintaining good oral hygiene is always important, you should be especially vigilant in the months following a gum abscess. This period is crucial for preventing recurrence and allowing your gums to fully heal. However, the habits you develop during this time should ideally become lifelong practices for optimal oral health.

Emotional and Psychological Aspects

Dealing with a gum abscess and its aftermath can be stressful. Some individuals may experience:

• Anxiety about future dental problems
• Embarrassment about their oral health
• Frustration with the recovery process

It’s important to address these feelings and communicate openly with your dental care provider. They can offer reassurance, provide coping strategies, and help you feel more confident about maintaining your oral health.

Pictures, Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, and More

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• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
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Left untreated, a gum abscess can lead to serious complications. But catching and treating it early leads to a more positive outlook.

What is a gum abscess?

An abscess is a pocket of pus that can develop on many parts of your body, including the inside of your mouth. Some people develop a tooth abscess that affects the area surrounding the tooth. But sometimes, an abscess can form on the gums.

Also called a periodontal abscess, a gum abscess is a painful condition that can lead to serious complications. It’s important to recognize the signs of a gum abscess and get medical treatment if you develop one.

A gum abscess occurs when bacteria in the mouth causes an infection in the space between the teeth and the gums. Some gum abscesses result from periodontitis disease, which is caused by poor oral hygiene.

Periodontitis disease is an inflammatory condition of the gums that develops when plaque accumulates under the gums. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria. When it isn’t removed from teeth through regular brushing and flossing, an infection can occur in the surrounding tissue. This can result in the formation of an abscess.

A gum abscess can also occur due to a deep periodontal pocket. A periodontal pocket is a space that develops around the teeth from gum disease. Bacteria can live in this space. If food and plaque become embedded in this space, bacteria can thrive.

Having a weaker immune system can also contribute to a gum abscess because your immune system is unable to fight off infections. Factors that may reduce your body’s defenses include being tired, stressed, or having a chronic illness.

Some oral conditions of the mouth and gums can go unnoticed and cause little symptoms in early stages. This is not the case with a gum abscess.

These abscesses can cause persistent, severe pain in the affected area. If you open your mouth and observe the area, you may also notice swelling and redness. Other signs of a gum abscess include:

• sensitivity to heat or cold foods and drinks
• pain while chewing
• a loose tooth
• bad taste in the mouth (from pus discharge)
• pus discharge
• fever

If you experience gum pain, tenderness, or tastes pus in your mouth, don’t ignore these signs. Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist may be able to identify a gum abscess (or make another diagnosis) based on your symptoms.

During this appointment, your dentist may examine your gums and look for signs of an infection. These include pain, swelling, and redness. Along with visual observation of your gums, your doctor may order a dental X-ray to check for periodontal disease or an infected tooth (due to pulp infection). An X-ray can also help your doctor assess whether you have bone loss from the infection.

Symptoms of a gum abscess may improve slightly in time. But even if an abscess ruptures and drains, you should still see a dentist to treat the infection.

Keep in mind that a gum abscess will not completely heal on its own. It’s important that you see a dentist to begin treatment.

Treatment for a gum abscess involves draining the abscess and removing any debris in your periodontal pocket. Your dentist may suggest a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planning. This procedure removes plaque and tartar from above and beneath the gum line.

Draining the abscess is necessary to remove the infection and prevent complications. This procedure involves cutting an incision in the abscess. Your dentist may apply numbing cream to the area before beginning the procedure.

Your doctor can use your dental X-ray to determine whether your gum abscess has resulted in bone loss. Depending on the extent of bone loss, your dentist may choose to extract a tooth. They may also recommend a procedure to regenerate lost bone or gum tissue.

A gum abscess can sometimes affect the pulp, which is the center of the tooth. The pulp is made up of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. If the pulp is affected, you may need a root canal to remove the damaged section of the tooth.

Medications

In addition to these dental procedures to remove and treat infection, your dentist may prescribe a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics can help with swelling if your dentist is unable to completely drain the abscess. This medication can also prevent reoccurrence and stop the infection from spreading to other areas of your body. If you experience pain, your dentist can prescribe pain medication.

There’s no way to treat a gum abscess at home. To reduce pain and sensitivity until you see a dentist, rinse your mouth with warm salt water or take over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen to reduce inflammation.

Don’t ignore a gum abscess. If left untreated, the infection can spread deeper into the gum tissue and affect surrounding teeth and bones. This can cause increased pain and swelling, and the infection could travel to other parts of your face and body.

In rare cases, a gum infection can travel to the bloodstream and cause a life-threatening complication known as sepsis. Sepsis symptoms include:

• a temperature above 101˚F (38˚C)
• difficulty breathing
• abdominal pain
• high heart rate

Practice good oral hygiene to prevent a gum abscess. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis. Brush your teeth two to three times a day, particularly after meals. This reduces the amount of plaque that accumulates on your teeth and under the gum line. Also, floss at least once a day to remove food and plaque stuck in the gums.

Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings. Get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months. Your dentist can observe the health of your teeth and gums, and diagnose oral problems early to prevent disease and infections.

Shop for toothbrushes and dental floss.

With early treatment, the outlook for a gum abscess is positive. Your dentist can drain the pus and remove the infection, reducing the risk of complications. But if left untreated, a gum abscess can worsen and lead to a potentially life-threatening infection.

Consult your dentist if you develop any pain, swelling, or discharge in your gums.

Pictures, Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, and More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Left untreated, a gum abscess can lead to serious complications. But catching and treating it early leads to a more positive outlook.

What is a gum abscess?

An abscess is a pocket of pus that can develop on many parts of your body, including the inside of your mouth. Some people develop a tooth abscess that affects the area surrounding the tooth. But sometimes, an abscess can form on the gums.

Also called a periodontal abscess, a gum abscess is a painful condition that can lead to serious complications. It’s important to recognize the signs of a gum abscess and get medical treatment if you develop one.

A gum abscess occurs when bacteria in the mouth causes an infection in the space between the teeth and the gums. Some gum abscesses result from periodontitis disease, which is caused by poor oral hygiene.

Periodontitis disease is an inflammatory condition of the gums that develops when plaque accumulates under the gums. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria. When it isn’t removed from teeth through regular brushing and flossing, an infection can occur in the surrounding tissue. This can result in the formation of an abscess.

A gum abscess can also occur due to a deep periodontal pocket. A periodontal pocket is a space that develops around the teeth from gum disease. Bacteria can live in this space. If food and plaque become embedded in this space, bacteria can thrive.

Having a weaker immune system can also contribute to a gum abscess because your immune system is unable to fight off infections. Factors that may reduce your body’s defenses include being tired, stressed, or having a chronic illness.

Some oral conditions of the mouth and gums can go unnoticed and cause little symptoms in early stages. This is not the case with a gum abscess.

These abscesses can cause persistent, severe pain in the affected area. If you open your mouth and observe the area, you may also notice swelling and redness. Other signs of a gum abscess include:

• sensitivity to heat or cold foods and drinks
• pain while chewing
• a loose tooth
• bad taste in the mouth (from pus discharge)
• pus discharge
• fever

If you experience gum pain, tenderness, or tastes pus in your mouth, don’t ignore these signs. Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist may be able to identify a gum abscess (or make another diagnosis) based on your symptoms.

During this appointment, your dentist may examine your gums and look for signs of an infection. These include pain, swelling, and redness. Along with visual observation of your gums, your doctor may order a dental X-ray to check for periodontal disease or an infected tooth (due to pulp infection). An X-ray can also help your doctor assess whether you have bone loss from the infection.

Symptoms of a gum abscess may improve slightly in time. But even if an abscess ruptures and drains, you should still see a dentist to treat the infection.

Keep in mind that a gum abscess will not completely heal on its own. It’s important that you see a dentist to begin treatment.

Treatment for a gum abscess involves draining the abscess and removing any debris in your periodontal pocket. Your dentist may suggest a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planning. This procedure removes plaque and tartar from above and beneath the gum line.

Draining the abscess is necessary to remove the infection and prevent complications. This procedure involves cutting an incision in the abscess. Your dentist may apply numbing cream to the area before beginning the procedure.

Your doctor can use your dental X-ray to determine whether your gum abscess has resulted in bone loss. Depending on the extent of bone loss, your dentist may choose to extract a tooth. They may also recommend a procedure to regenerate lost bone or gum tissue.

A gum abscess can sometimes affect the pulp, which is the center of the tooth. The pulp is made up of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. If the pulp is affected, you may need a root canal to remove the damaged section of the tooth.

Medications

In addition to these dental procedures to remove and treat infection, your dentist may prescribe a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics can help with swelling if your dentist is unable to completely drain the abscess. This medication can also prevent reoccurrence and stop the infection from spreading to other areas of your body. If you experience pain, your dentist can prescribe pain medication.

There’s no way to treat a gum abscess at home. To reduce pain and sensitivity until you see a dentist, rinse your mouth with warm salt water or take over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen to reduce inflammation.

Don’t ignore a gum abscess. If left untreated, the infection can spread deeper into the gum tissue and affect surrounding teeth and bones. This can cause increased pain and swelling, and the infection could travel to other parts of your face and body.

In rare cases, a gum infection can travel to the bloodstream and cause a life-threatening complication known as sepsis. Sepsis symptoms include:

• a temperature above 101˚F (38˚C)
• difficulty breathing
• abdominal pain
• high heart rate

Practice good oral hygiene to prevent a gum abscess. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis. Brush your teeth two to three times a day, particularly after meals. This reduces the amount of plaque that accumulates on your teeth and under the gum line. Also, floss at least once a day to remove food and plaque stuck in the gums.

Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings. Get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months. Your dentist can observe the health of your teeth and gums, and diagnose oral problems early to prevent disease and infections.

Shop for toothbrushes and dental floss.

With early treatment, the outlook for a gum abscess is positive. Your dentist can drain the pus and remove the infection, reducing the risk of complications. But if left untreated, a gum abscess can worsen and lead to a potentially life-threatening infection.

Consult your dentist if you develop any pain, swelling, or discharge in your gums.

Types, Symptoms and Methods of Treatment

The information provided in this article cannot be used for diagnosis, treatment and does not replace the advice of a doctor.

Created: 01/27/2020

Last edited: 03/22/2021

41231

Contents:

• Types of tooth abscess
• Symptoms of tooth abscess
• Causes of tooth abscess
• Complications of tooth abscess
• Diagnosis of tooth abscess
• Treatment of tooth abscess
• Dental abscess prophylaxis

Tooth abscess is an acute infectious disease that develops in the area of ​​the tooth roots. Often, this disease is faced by people who do not carry out sufficient oral hygiene. When there are defects on the teeth, expressed by cracks and chips, carious lesions, bacteria penetrate into their soft parts and settle there, which is why an inflammatory process occurs, pus forms and the gums swell.

There are nerve endings in the area of ​​the pulp, so any inflammation is accompanied by a strong pain syndrome. The development of an abscess occurs quite quickly, if urgent measures are not taken, the bone tissue will be affected, and the integrity of the tooth becomes jeopardized.

With self-treatment of a tooth abscess, it will not be possible to achieve a good result, perhaps for a short period of time the pain will be stopped, but this threatens with more serious consequences. In order for the treatment to be successful, it is necessary to contact a specialist in a timely manner and receive qualified assistance.

Tooth abscess photo:

Types of tooth abscess The process of the tooth is located in the dental cavity as a result of the necrosis of the pulp.

Its main difference is that pus accumulates directly under the root of the tooth.

When the amount of accumulated pus is small, it is kept in a limited space, as if in a sac. As the inflammation and volume of pus increase, a fistula occurs – this is a kind of channel that connects the abscess and the external environment. This is a round hole that appears in the gum that swells around the edges. Pus is released from the wound in the form of a white spot.

Symptoms of tooth abscess

Bacteria begin to infect one tooth, but if emergency measures are not taken, suppuration will spread to nearby neighbors. The abscess begins painfully – swelling and severe pain appear at the site of the lesion. Taking painkillers, the pain goes away for a short period of time, and subsequently manifests itself with greater force.

If you are worried about a tooth abscess, the symptoms will be:

• Pain when chewing and pressing on the tooth.
• Pain in the gum area when there is pressure on it.
• There is an unpleasant taste in the mouth, bitter, and also an unpleasant odor.
• The gums are swollen.
• Facial asymmetry may appear.
• Lymph nodes increase in size.
• Fever and headache.

If emergency measures are not taken, wounds with pus will begin to appear on the gum. Please note that if the abscess bursts, the pain will subside, but this does not mean that the disease has passed. The bacteria that caused the development of the disease will still be located in the tissues of the tooth, so the recurrence of inflammation will not be long in coming.

Causes of a tooth abscess

The onset of the disease often occurs in the dead pulp after root canals have been unsuccessfully treated. In children, an abscess occurs as a consequence of untreated caries. With adults, the situation is a little different, since the formed and strengthened immunity makes it easier for the body to cope with various inflammations.

Main causes of gum or tooth abscess:

• Gum disease.
• Carious destruction of teeth.
• Cysts on teeth, granulomas.
• Cracks and chips of teeth.
• Various injuries in the oral cavity.
• Poor oral hygiene.
• Weak immunity.

Please note that infection can occur anywhere in the body, and the bacterium enters the gum through the bloodstream. That is why, any infectious diseases require careful attention, in particular, in the ENT part, as well as methods and ways to increase immunity, if there are problems with it.

Complications of a tooth abscess

Please note that a festering tooth abscess does not go away on its own. Even if the pus has flowed out, you have opened the abscess yourself, the pain syndrome will be reduced, but dental treatment is necessary and mandatory. Without drainage of the abscess, complications will arise in the tissues of the lower jaw, in the head or neck, in extreme cases, sepsis will develop, the infection will spread throughout the body through the circulatory system.

Diagnosis of a tooth abscess

The dentist examines the affected tooth, oral cavity, tissues located near the site of inflammation, after that:

• the affected tooth is tapped, it will be painful, sensitive to touch and pressure;
• X-ray examination is performed to see the extent and localization of tooth damage;
• CT of the head and neck is performed to determine the location and spread of the infection throughout the body;
• undergo laboratory tests to determine which bacterium caused the infection. This is necessary in order to correctly prescribe antibiotic therapy;
• When the abscess is diagnosed and confirmed, the extent of the lesion is determined, appropriate treatment is prescribed.

Treatment of a tooth abscess

If a tooth abscess is diagnosed, treatment will be aimed at minimizing and nullifying the infectious process. In particular, the treatment consists of:

• Opening, drainage of abscess – an incision is made near the location of the abscess to neutralize pus, after which the open cavity is washed with saline, the tissue near the open wound is treated in the same way.
• Forming the root canal of the dental pulp – the affected tissues are removed, the abscess is drained, a special sealant is introduced into the voids formed to neutralize the development and spread of the infection, and also make every effort to save the tooth. To strengthen the tooth, a crown can be added later.
• Extraction of the affected tooth occurs if it cannot be saved. The tooth is then removed and the abscess drained.
• Antibacterial therapy is necessary in order to prevent the spread of infection to tissues, teeth, located near the affected area.

To relieve the pain of a tooth abscess, you can rinse with warm salt water or use a special dental solution. You can also take painkillers.

Tooth abscess prevention

Teeth require some care to prevent further inflammation and decay:

• when drinking water, when rinsing the mouth, give preference to fluoridated water;
• brush your teeth twice a day with a special fluoride toothpaste, rinse your mouth after each meal;
• Replace your toothbrush with a new one every 3-4 months;
• give preference to healthy food, minimize sweets, starchy foods;
• every six months visit the dentist for examination, professional dental hygiene.

If you are faced with the fact that an abscess has appeared on the gums, immediately contact your dentist to receive high-quality and professional help, because you will not be able to cope with the disease on your own. By following all the recommendations for treatment, you will quickly get rid of the disease and its consequences.

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• International Dental Association
• We advise patients from all over Russia and the CIS

Tooth abscess – a purulent inflammatory process – the result of a bactericidal infection, accompanied by accumulation of pus and swelling of soft tissues. The disease is dangerous not only because of the possibility of losing a bad tooth, but also for human life.

Abscess most often occurs in the root of the tooth and is accompanied by severe pain.

Symptoms

• Strong reaction to sour, sweet, cold.
• Long-term pain is observed in the area of ​​the diseased tooth.
• There is an unpleasant odor and a bitter taste in the mouth.
• Biting on the aching tooth is difficult.
• Cervical lymph nodes are enlarged.
• Swelling and redness in affected area;
• The temperature is rising.
• The crown part of the tooth darkens.
• Appetite decreases, malaise is felt, sleep is disturbed.

Possible complications

In case of sudden disappearance of signs of an abscess, do not be complacent. Rather, on the contrary – most likely the root of the tooth rotted, and the infection began to spread through the jaw system and throughout the body as a whole.

It is not recommended to self-medicate, as these attempts end in the formation of a fistula. The most serious consequences of an abscess:

• Diseases of the vessels and heart;
• Inflammation of the bone or brain;
• vascular and heart diseases;
• Pneumonia;
• Diabetes.

Causes of abscess

Mechanical:

• Trauma to the oral mucosa or soft tissues;
• Enamel chipped;
• Fracture of the tooth in the crown part.

Iatrogenic:

• Use of non-sterile instruments by the dentist;
• Introduction of infection by injection;
• Tooth extraction under non-sterile conditions.

Dental:

• Caries;
• Pulpitis;
• Granuloma or cyst;
• Gingivitis or periodontitis.

Medical:

complications after viral infections, tonsillitis or influenza.

Treatment

Complex treatment is practiced, combining:

• Opening of the abscess, disinfection of the affected area with the installation of drainage;
• Root canal treatment, including removal of the pulp, evacuation of pus and filling;
• Surgery if the purulent process has spread to the neck and beyond;
• Antiseptic rinsing for speedy wound healing;
• Taking antibiotics;
• Taking pain medication.

Today, tooth extraction is a last resort when there are no more chances to save it.

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The author of the article: Alexander Vladimirovich Mikhalev

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EAO Congress with TRATE September 26 – September 28…

• Building the “Bridge to the Future” of Implantology,
• take part in dynamic and interactive. ..

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MCDI Leading Surgeon Implantologist Rutt Vozniuk Vladimir…

Voznyuk Vladimir Aleksandrovich – leading dental surgeon-implantologist was invited to live on…

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A unique sensor to help the dentist – now…

Efficient and correct diagnosis of bite (or occlusion) is extremely important for teeth,…

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Our consultants and authors of articles

Anri Henry Diederich

President of the Open Dental Community

Mikhalev Alexander Vladimirovich

Nesterenko Alexey Pavlovich

implant surgeon

Kustov Nikita Igorevich

dentist -orthopedist

Miliev Semyon Konstantinovich

Dentist-therapist

Maksimenko Elena Gennadievna

orthodontist

Bolshakova Evgenia Vladimirovna

hygienist

Shirokov Ivan Yurievich

orthopedist

Lyubov Ivanovna Kopylova

surgeon-implantologist, dentist-therapist

Palkin Dmitry Alekseevich

surgeon-implantologist

Malinovsky Igor Yurievich

905 74 Maxillofacial surgeon-implantologist

Sacheev Nanda

President of the International Open Society of Dentists (ODC) of India

Alvaro Bastida

Honorary Member and International Speaker of the ODC

El Mohab Mohamad

Member of the International Open Society of Dentists (ODC)

Voznyuk Vladimir Aleksandrovich

Maxillofacial surgeon-implantologist of the highest category

Omerelli Emir Romanovich

Maxillofacial surgeon-implantologist and candidate of medical sciences 905 75

Sapronov Dmitry Olegovich

dentist -orthopedist

Denius Karpavicius (Lithuania)

President of OPDECO (Open Dental Community) in Lithuania

Categories

• gum disease
• Diseases of the teeth
• Oral diseases
• Diseases of the tongue
• treatments

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ReSmile all-on-4 complex implantation

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