What is a tooth abscess. How does a tooth abscess form. What are the main symptoms of a tooth abscess. When should you seek medical attention for a tooth abscess. What are the potential complications of an untreated tooth abscess. How can you prevent tooth abscesses.

Understanding Tooth Abscesses: Types and Causes

A tooth abscess is a serious dental condition characterized by a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. There are two main types of tooth abscesses:

• Periapical abscess: Occurs at the tip of the tooth root
• Periodontal abscess: Develops in the gums alongside the tooth root

This article primarily focuses on periapical abscesses, which typically result from untreated dental cavities, injuries, or complications from previous dental work. The infection causes inflammation and swelling, leading to an abscess formation at the root tip.

How Does a Periapical Tooth Abscess Form?

Bacteria can infiltrate the innermost part of the tooth, known as the dental pulp, through various entry points:

• Deep cavities
• Chips or cracks in the tooth
• Trauma to the tooth

Once inside, the bacteria multiply, causing infection and inflammation that can spread to the root tip, forming an abscess.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess

Identifying a tooth abscess early is crucial for prompt treatment and prevention of complications. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Severe, persistent, throbbing toothache that may radiate to the jaw, neck, or ear
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Fever
• Facial swelling, potentially affecting breathing or swallowing
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck
• Foul breath odor
• Sudden release of foul-tasting, salty fluid in the mouth (if the abscess ruptures)

Is facial swelling always present with a tooth abscess? While facial swelling is a common symptom, it may not always be present in the early stages of a tooth abscess. Some individuals may experience only localized pain or sensitivity before more noticeable symptoms develop.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Tooth Abscess

Prompt medical attention is essential when dealing with a tooth abscess. Consider the following guidelines:

• Contact your dentist immediately if you experience any signs or symptoms of a tooth abscess
• Seek emergency care if you have a fever accompanied by facial swelling and cannot reach your dentist
• Visit the emergency room if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, as this may indicate that the infection has spread

Can a tooth abscess resolve on its own? A tooth abscess will not go away without proper treatment. Even if the abscess ruptures and pain subsides, dental intervention is still necessary to address the underlying infection and prevent further complications.

Risk Factors Contributing to Tooth Abscesses

Several factors can increase your susceptibility to developing a tooth abscess:

1. Poor dental hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, creating favorable conditions for abscess formation.
2. High-sugar diet: Frequent consumption of sugary foods and beverages contributes to dental cavities, which can progress to abscesses if left untreated.
3. Dry mouth: Reduced saliva production, often a side effect of certain medications or age-related issues, can increase the risk of tooth decay and subsequent abscess formation.

How does a high-sugar diet contribute to tooth abscess formation? Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, leading to increased acid production. This acid erodes tooth enamel, creating cavities that can become entry points for bacteria, potentially resulting in abscesses if left untreated.

Potential Complications of Untreated Tooth Abscesses

Neglecting a tooth abscess can lead to severe complications, including:

• Spread of infection to surrounding tissues, including the jaw, head, and neck
• Development of a sinus infection if the abscess is near the maxillary sinus
• Sepsis, a life-threatening systemic infection
• Increased risk of complications for individuals with weakened immune systems

Can a tooth abscess lead to brain infection? While rare, it is possible for a tooth abscess to spread to the brain, causing a potentially life-threatening condition called cerebral abscess. This underscores the importance of prompt treatment for dental infections.

Treatment Options for Tooth Abscesses

Dentists employ various strategies to treat tooth abscesses, focusing on draining the pus and eliminating the infection. Treatment options may include:

1. Root canal treatment: This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canal system, and sealing it to preserve the tooth.
2. Tooth extraction: In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary to remove the source of infection.
3. Incision and drainage: For abscesses that have spread to surrounding tissues, a small incision may be made to drain the pus.
4. Antibiotics: Prescribed to help control the infection, especially if it has spread beyond the abscess site.

Is root canal treatment always successful in treating a tooth abscess? While root canal treatment is often effective in saving an abscessed tooth, success rates can vary depending on the extent of the infection and the overall health of the tooth. In some cases, extraction may still be necessary if the tooth is severely damaged.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Tooth Abscesses

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing tooth abscesses. Follow these preventive measures:

• Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss or use a water flosser daily
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months
• Limit sugary foods and beverages
• Drink fluoridated water
• Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings
• Consider using an antiseptic or fluoride mouth rinse for added protection

How often should you visit the dentist for preventive care? Most dental professionals recommend biannual check-ups and cleanings for optimal oral health. However, individuals with a higher risk of dental problems may need more frequent visits, as determined by their dentist.

The Role of Diet in Preventing Tooth Abscesses

While maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, diet also plays a significant role in preventing tooth abscesses. Consider the following dietary recommendations:

• Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages
• Incorporate calcium-rich foods to strengthen tooth enamel
• Consume crunchy fruits and vegetables to stimulate saliva production
• Drink plenty of water to help rinse away food particles and bacteria
• Choose sugar-free gum with xylitol to promote saliva flow and reduce bacteria

Are there specific foods that can help prevent tooth abscesses? While no food can directly prevent tooth abscesses, certain foods can contribute to overall oral health. Foods rich in vitamin C (such as citrus fruits and leafy greens) support gum health, while foods high in calcium and phosphorus (like dairy products and nuts) help strengthen tooth enamel.

The Impact of Smoking on Tooth Abscess Risk

Smoking not only affects overall health but also significantly increases the risk of dental problems, including tooth abscesses. Here’s how smoking contributes to this risk:

• Reduces blood flow to the gums, impeding their ability to fight infections
• Weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to combat oral bacteria
• Increases the likelihood of gum disease, which can lead to periodontal abscesses
• Masks symptoms of gum disease, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment

How long after quitting smoking does oral health improve? While the effects of smoking on oral health can be long-lasting, improvements can be seen relatively quickly after quitting. Gum health often begins to improve within weeks, and the risk of oral infections, including abscesses, decreases significantly over time.

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques for Tooth Abscesses

Dentists employ various diagnostic tools to accurately identify and assess tooth abscesses. These methods include:

1. Dental X-rays: Reveal decay, bone loss, and potential spread of infection
2. CT scans: Provide detailed 3D images to assess the extent of the abscess
3. Percussion testing: Tapping on the tooth to check for sensitivity
4. Electric pulp testing: Evaluates the health of the tooth’s pulp
5. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT): Offers high-resolution 3D imaging for complex cases

How accurate are dental X-rays in diagnosing tooth abscesses? While dental X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool, they may not always detect early-stage abscesses. In some cases, additional imaging techniques or clinical examination may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

The Connection Between Systemic Health and Tooth Abscesses

Tooth abscesses don’t just affect oral health; they can have far-reaching implications for overall systemic health. Consider the following connections:

• Cardiovascular health: Oral bacteria from abscesses may enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting heart health
• Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to infections, including tooth abscesses
• Pregnancy complications: Untreated dental infections may increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight
• Respiratory issues: Bacteria from oral infections can be aspirated into the lungs, potentially causing respiratory problems

Can treating a tooth abscess improve overall health? Addressing a tooth abscess not only resolves the immediate dental issue but can also have positive effects on overall health. By eliminating the source of infection, you reduce the risk of bacteria spreading to other parts of the body and alleviate stress on your immune system.

Emerging Technologies in Tooth Abscess Treatment

Advancements in dental technology are continuously improving the diagnosis and treatment of tooth abscesses. Some innovative approaches include:

1. Laser therapy: Used for precise tissue removal and disinfection during root canal procedures
2. Photodynamic therapy: Combines light activation with photosensitizing agents to eliminate bacteria
3. Regenerative endodontics: Focuses on regenerating pulp tissue rather than replacing it with artificial materials
4. 3D printing: Enables the creation of custom dental implants and prosthetics for cases requiring tooth extraction
5. AI-assisted diagnosis: Utilizes artificial intelligence to enhance the accuracy of abscess detection in dental imaging

How effective is laser therapy in treating tooth abscesses? Laser therapy has shown promising results in treating tooth abscesses, offering benefits such as reduced pain, faster healing, and improved disinfection. However, its effectiveness may vary depending on the specific case and the dentist’s expertise with the technology.

The Psychological Impact of Tooth Abscesses

While the physical symptoms of tooth abscesses are well-documented, the psychological effects are often overlooked. Tooth abscesses can have significant emotional and social impacts, including:

• Anxiety and stress related to pain and potential complications
• Embarrassment due to visible swelling or bad breath
• Social isolation to avoid discomfort or self-consciousness
• Depression stemming from chronic pain or concerns about dental health
• Reduced quality of life due to dietary restrictions and pain management

How can patients cope with the psychological effects of a tooth abscess? Seeking prompt treatment is crucial not only for physical health but also for mental well-being. Additionally, patients may benefit from stress-reduction techniques, support groups, or counseling to address the emotional aspects of dealing with dental health issues.

The Economic Burden of Tooth Abscesses

Tooth abscesses not only affect individual health but also have broader economic implications. Consider the following factors:

1. Direct medical costs: Expenses related to dental treatments, medications, and potential hospitalizations
2. Indirect costs: Lost productivity due to missed work or school days
3. Long-term healthcare costs: Potential expenses related to complications or systemic health issues stemming from untreated abscesses
4. Preventive care savings: The cost-effectiveness of regular dental check-ups compared to emergency treatments
5. Insurance considerations: The impact of dental coverage on access to preventive care and treatments

How does preventive dental care compare cost-wise to treating a tooth abscess? While the exact figures can vary, preventive dental care is generally much more cost-effective than treating a tooth abscess. Regular check-ups and cleanings can help catch potential issues early, preventing the need for more extensive and expensive treatments down the line.

The Role of Genetics in Tooth Abscess Susceptibility

While environmental factors play a significant role in tooth abscess development, genetic predisposition can also influence an individual’s susceptibility. Genetic factors that may contribute to increased risk include:

• Variations in immune system genes affecting the body’s ability to fight oral infections
• Inherited dental structural abnormalities that may make teeth more prone to decay
• Genetic conditions affecting saliva production or composition
• Hereditary disorders impacting tooth enamel strength

Can genetic testing help predict tooth abscess risk? While genetic testing for dental health is an emerging field, it’s not yet widely used to predict specific risks like tooth abscesses. However, understanding family history and genetic predispositions can help individuals and their dentists develop more targeted preventive strategies.

Tooth abscess – Symptoms & causes

Overview

A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that’s caused by a bacterial infection. The abscess can occur at different areas near the tooth for different reasons. A periapical (per-e-AP-ih-kul) abscess occurs at the tip of the root. A periodontal (per-e-o-DON-tul) abscess occurs in the gums at the side of a tooth root. The information here is about periapical abscesses.

A periapical tooth abscess usually occurs as a result of an untreated dental cavity, an injury or prior dental work. The resulting infection with irritation and swelling (inflammation) can cause an abscess at the tip of the root.

Dentists will treat a tooth abscess by draining it and getting rid of the infection. They may be able to save your tooth with a root canal treatment. But in some cases the tooth may need to be pulled. Leaving a tooth abscess untreated can lead to serious, even life-threatening, complications.

Periapical tooth abscess

Bacteria can enter the innermost part of the tooth through either a deep cavity or a chip or crack in your tooth. The resulting infection and inflammation can cause an abscess at the tip of the root.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

• Severe, constant, throbbing toothache that can spread to your jawbone, neck or ear
• Pain or discomfort with hot and cold temperatures
• Pain or discomfort with the pressure of chewing or biting
• Fever
• Swelling in your face, cheek or neck that may lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck
• Foul odor in your mouth
• Sudden rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth and pain relief, if the abscess ruptures

When to see a doctor

See your dentist promptly if you have any signs or symptoms of a tooth abscess.

If you have a fever and swelling in your face and you can’t reach your dentist, go to an emergency room. Also go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing or swallowing. These symptoms may indicate that the infection has spread deeper into your jaw, throat or neck or even to other areas of your body.

Causes

A periapical tooth abscess occurs when bacteria invade the dental pulp. The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue.

Bacteria enter through either a dental cavity or a chip or crack in the tooth and spread all the way down to the root. The bacterial infection can cause swelling and inflammation at the tip of the root.

Risk factors

These factors may increase your risk of a tooth abscess:

• Poor dental habits and care. Not taking proper care of your teeth and gums — such as not brushing your teeth twice a day and not flossing — can increase your risk of dental problems. Problems may include tooth decay, gum disease, tooth abscess, and other dental and mouth complications.
• A diet high in sugar. Frequently eating and drinking foods rich in sugar, such as sweets and sodas, can contribute to dental cavities and turn into a tooth abscess.
• Dry mouth. Having a dry mouth can increase your risk of tooth decay. Dry mouth is often due to the side effect of certain medications or issues related to aging.

Complications

A tooth abscess won’t go away without treatment. If the abscess ruptures, the pain may improve a lot, making you think that the problem has gone away — but you still need to get dental treatment.

If the abscess doesn’t drain, the infection may spread to your jaw and to other areas of your head and neck. If the tooth is located near the maxillary sinus — two large spaces under your eyes and behind your cheeks — you can also develop an opening between the tooth abscess and the sinus. This can cause an infection in the sinus cavity. You might even develop sepsis — a life-threatening infection that spreads throughout your body.

If you have a weakened immune system and you leave a tooth abscess untreated, your risk of a spreading infection increases even more.

Prevention

Avoiding tooth decay is essential to preventing a tooth abscess. Take good care of your teeth to avoid tooth decay:

• Drink water that contains fluoride.
• Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Use dental floss or a water flosser to clean between your teeth on a daily basis.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or whenever the bristles are frayed.
• Eat healthy food, limiting sugary items and between-meal snacks.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
• Consider using an antiseptic or a fluoride mouth rinse to add an extra layer of protection against tooth decay.

Tooth abscess – Symptoms & causes

Overview

A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that’s caused by a bacterial infection. The abscess can occur at different areas near the tooth for different reasons. A periapical (per-e-AP-ih-kul) abscess occurs at the tip of the root. A periodontal (per-e-o-DON-tul) abscess occurs in the gums at the side of a tooth root. The information here is about periapical abscesses.

A periapical tooth abscess usually occurs as a result of an untreated dental cavity, an injury or prior dental work. The resulting infection with irritation and swelling (inflammation) can cause an abscess at the tip of the root.

Dentists will treat a tooth abscess by draining it and getting rid of the infection. They may be able to save your tooth with a root canal treatment. But in some cases the tooth may need to be pulled. Leaving a tooth abscess untreated can lead to serious, even life-threatening, complications.

Periapical tooth abscess

Bacteria can enter the innermost part of the tooth through either a deep cavity or a chip or crack in your tooth. The resulting infection and inflammation can cause an abscess at the tip of the root.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

• Severe, constant, throbbing toothache that can spread to your jawbone, neck or ear
• Pain or discomfort with hot and cold temperatures
• Pain or discomfort with the pressure of chewing or biting
• Fever
• Swelling in your face, cheek or neck that may lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck
• Foul odor in your mouth
• Sudden rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth and pain relief, if the abscess ruptures

When to see a doctor

See your dentist promptly if you have any signs or symptoms of a tooth abscess.

If you have a fever and swelling in your face and you can’t reach your dentist, go to an emergency room. Also go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing or swallowing. These symptoms may indicate that the infection has spread deeper into your jaw, throat or neck or even to other areas of your body.

Causes

A periapical tooth abscess occurs when bacteria invade the dental pulp. The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue.

Bacteria enter through either a dental cavity or a chip or crack in the tooth and spread all the way down to the root. The bacterial infection can cause swelling and inflammation at the tip of the root.

Risk factors

These factors may increase your risk of a tooth abscess:

• Poor dental habits and care. Not taking proper care of your teeth and gums — such as not brushing your teeth twice a day and not flossing — can increase your risk of dental problems. Problems may include tooth decay, gum disease, tooth abscess, and other dental and mouth complications.
• A diet high in sugar. Frequently eating and drinking foods rich in sugar, such as sweets and sodas, can contribute to dental cavities and turn into a tooth abscess.
• Dry mouth. Having a dry mouth can increase your risk of tooth decay. Dry mouth is often due to the side effect of certain medications or issues related to aging.

Complications

A tooth abscess won’t go away without treatment. If the abscess ruptures, the pain may improve a lot, making you think that the problem has gone away — but you still need to get dental treatment.

If the abscess doesn’t drain, the infection may spread to your jaw and to other areas of your head and neck. If the tooth is located near the maxillary sinus — two large spaces under your eyes and behind your cheeks — you can also develop an opening between the tooth abscess and the sinus. This can cause an infection in the sinus cavity. You might even develop sepsis — a life-threatening infection that spreads throughout your body.

If you have a weakened immune system and you leave a tooth abscess untreated, your risk of a spreading infection increases even more.

Prevention

Avoiding tooth decay is essential to preventing a tooth abscess. Take good care of your teeth to avoid tooth decay:

• Drink water that contains fluoride.
• Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Use dental floss or a water flosser to clean between your teeth on a daily basis.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or whenever the bristles are frayed.
• Eat healthy food, limiting sugary items and between-meal snacks.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
• Consider using an antiseptic or a fluoride mouth rinse to add an extra layer of protection against tooth decay.

Purulent tooth abscess: symptoms and treatment

What is it?
A tooth abscess is a collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection on the inside of a tooth.

A tooth abscess usually results from a cavity left untreated, or from a crack or chip in the tooth that allows bacteria to enter the tooth.

Treatment of a tooth abscess includes draining the abscess and cleaning the affected area of ​​infection. The tooth itself can be saved by root canal cleaning, but in some cases it may need to be extracted. Leaving a tooth abscess untreated can lead to serious, even life-threatening consequences.

Tooth abscess prevention requires proper dental care, a healthy diet and regular dental visits.

Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

Severe, persistent throbbing toothache pressure when chewing or biting

Fever

Swelling (edema) of the face or cheek

Tender, swollen lymph nodes under the lower jaw or in the neck

Sudden breakthrough of foul-tasting fluid in the mouth and cessation of pain after an abscess ruptures

When to see a doctor
See a dentist right away if any signs or symptoms of a tooth abscess are found. If you experience fever and facial swelling and a dentist is unavailable, go to an emergency room. Fever and swelling of the face may indicate that the infection has spread deep into the jaw and surrounding tissue, or even to other areas of the body.

Causes
A tooth abscess occurs when bacteria invade the dental pulp, the soft inner part of the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.

Bacteria enters a cavity or a chip or crack in a tooth and spreads to the root. The bacterial infection causes inflammation and swelling. The limited space in which inflammation occurs causes pus to be squeezed out into a cavity (also called an abscess pocket) at the apex of the root.

Risk factors
The following factors increase the risk of tooth abscess:

· Poor dental hygiene. Improper care of teeth and gums, such as not flossing and brushing twice a day, can increase the risk of caries, periodontitis, abscesses and other dental and oral diseases and their complications.

· High sugar diet. Frequent consumption of foods high in sugar, such as pastries and sweets, contributes to the formation of cavities and, in turn, tooth abscess.

· Associated health problems. Having a medical condition that weakens your immune system, such as diabetes or an autoimmune disease, can increase your risk of tooth infection and tooth abscess.

Complications
Tooth abscess does not go away without treatment. In the case of self-opening of the abscess, a significant reduction in pain is possible, but the need for dental treatment does not disappear. If the abscess is not drained, the infection can spread to the tissues of the mandible and other parts of the head and neck. It can even lead to sepsis, a common, life-threatening infection.

A tooth abscess left untreated with a weakened immune system carries an increased risk of spreading infection compared to a normally functioning immune system.

Examination and diagnosis
In addition to examining the tooth and surrounding area, the dentist may perform one or more of the following examinations:

· Tapping on the affected tooth. A tooth with a root abscess is usually sensitive to touch or pressure.

X-ray. An x-ray of a diseased tooth can help identify an abscess. An x-ray or other imaging procedures, such as a CT scan, can also be used to determine if the infection has spread to develop abscesses at other sites.

Laboratory tests. In some cases, knowledge of the bacteria that causes the infection can be useful for targeted treatment, especially if first-line antibiotics have failed.

Treatment and drugs
The goal of treatment is to drain the abscess and clear the infection. To achieve this, the dentist can:

· Perform depulpation. This procedure may help clear the infection and save the tooth. To do this, the dentist drills into the tooth, removes the affected central tissue (pulp), and drains the abscess. The pulp chamber and root canals of the tooth are filled and sealed. The dentist can then place a crown on the tooth. With proper care, a restored tooth can last a lifetime.

· Remove affected tooth. If the affected tooth cannot be saved, the dentist will remove the tooth and drain the abscess to clear the infection.

Prescribe antibiotics. If the infection is limited to the site of the abscess, antibiotics may not be needed. However, if the infection spreads to nearby teeth, the lower jaw, or other areas, the dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics to stop the infection from spreading. Antibiotics may also be recommended for a weakened immune system.

Lifestyle and home remedies
While the lesion is healing, your dentist may recommend the following steps to relieve discomfort:

Gargling with warm salt water

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed

9 0002 Prevention
Prevention of tooth abscess requires the prevention of caries. Good dental care is key to preventing caries. It includes:

Using fluoridated drinking water

Brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste

Daily flossing or interdental cleaner

Changing toothbrush every three to four 6 months or bristle wear

Eating a balanced diet and limiting sugary foods and snacks between meals

Visiting a dentist for regular check-ups and professional oral hygiene

You can use an antibacterial or fluoride rinse for additional protection against caries

Tooth abscess – causes, methods of treatment in the clinic and at home – ROOTT

The gums are reddened, swollen, sore – these are classic signs of a tooth abscess a, an inflammatory process in which pus is formed. Accumulating in the cavity, as in a bag, pus causes swelling of the gums. In the people it is called flux.

Purulent inflammation can lead to serious consequences, so it is impossible to self-medicate if the gums are swollen. In dentistry, the cause of the abscess will be determined and specific treatment will be carried out.

Purulent tooth abscess – causes

When immunity is weakened, as a result of trauma or infectious diseases of the teeth, pathogens penetrate into the tissues surrounding the tooth (periodontium). In response to this, the body produces special cells, neutrophils. They neutralize pathogens, but die themselves. Pus is the remnants of dead cells, destroyed proteins of bacteria and neutrophils.

In dentistry, there are 3 types of abscess, depending on the cause:

• Periapical
  A purulent sac is formed at the top of the root.

• Periodontal
  An abscess occupies a space between the gum and the root.

• Desnevoy
  Localized in soft tissues, does not affect the root.

The type of abscess depends on how the pathogens have entered the tissues.

Caries leading to periodontitis

Advanced caries destroys the hard tissues of the tooth and penetrates into the pulp – the neurovascular bundle. Most often, pulpitis is accompanied by severe pain, but in some cases, the pain is not very pronounced, paroxysmal. If pulpitis is not treated in time, the tissues around the root become inflamed, periodontitis develops. Active formation of pus begins. Soon the pouch sticks out under the mucous membrane of the gums. In some cases, the root abscess breaks and a fistula forms in the gum, through which the pus comes out. Due to the fact that the pressure on the tissues is reduced, the patient experiences a feeling of relief. However, the formation of a fistula does not mean recovery. The inflammatory process continues and will eventually lead to tooth loss.

Incorrect treatment

Periodontitis can result from the negligence of a doctor. If the canals of the tooth are not completely sealed, then bacteria begin to multiply in the resulting voids, provoking an inflammatory process.

An abscess after tooth extraction occurs in 2 cases:

• The surgeon did not calculate the forces and caused injury during the extraction, damaging the bone tissue.
• The patient did not follow the recommendations of the dentist, which led to the penetration of pathogens into the wound.

Periodontitis

When the periodontium (tissues and ligaments that hold the tooth in the socket) becomes inflamed, the dentogingival attachment weakens, the gum ceases to fit snugly against the tooth, and tartar accumulates in the gap (periodontal pocket). It is a landing site for bacteria that multiply rapidly, causing the body’s immune response, which means the formation of pus. A swelling is formed in the projection of the pocket. It can be an abscess of the front tooth or side. Where the pocket is deeper, the likelihood of suppuration is higher.

Pericoronitis

Teething, especially third molars (wisdom teeth), can become painful. If the incorrect location or thick mucosa does not allow the “eight” to cut through completely, a hood of mucous forms on the tooth. There are leftover food. As they decompose, they provide nutrients for bacteria, which in turn cause inflammation. It can spread to the gum, forming a wisdom tooth abscess.

Trauma

It happens that when brushing your teeth, while eating or with poor-quality prosthetics, the gum is injured. The integrity of the mucous membrane is broken. Pathogens that are always present in the oral cavity penetrate inside. As a result of their active reproduction, accumulation of pus begins, a gingival abscess develops.

Symptoms

It all starts with slight pain when biting. Then there is swelling on the gum. The pain syndrome is growing. The general condition worsens. The temperature rises, Pain gives to the ear and head. Lymph nodes increase in size, an abscess develops independently of the upper tooth, or the lower one. A putrid odor comes from the mouth. When the abscess breaks through, a fistula is formed. It exudes pus. When the acute process subsides, the fistula closes, but only until a new aggravation.

Treatment

Diagnostic measures help determine the cause and plan treatment.

For diagnostic use:

• Patient interview
• Visual inspection
• Radiography

An x-ray will help to identify the causative tooth and show what is causing the suppuration: root inflammation, periodontal pocket or trauma.

At this stage, the decision is made whether to extract or save the tooth.

If it is decided to save the tooth, then the algorithm of therapeutic measures for periodontitis is as follows:

1. All tissues affected by caries are removed.
2. The tooth is depulped, the canals are left open.
3. If the canals have already been treated, then the old fillings are removed, the canals are cleaned, but not sealed. This facilitates the outflow of pus. If there is a crown on the tooth, they immediately proceed to the next stage.
4. The gum is opened. Insert drainage. After a while it is removed. This step is not always carried out.
5. Medical paste is inserted into the canals of the tooth. The cavity is closed with a temporary filling. After 4-8 weeks, a follow-up examination is carried out. If there is no recurrence, the canals are sealed with gutta-percha, a permanent filling is placed on the tooth.

If therapeutic methods do not help, or a fixed prosthesis is on the tooth, then a surgical method is used. The top of the root is amputated, eliminating the cause of inflammation. At the same time, a tooth cyst, abscess or granuloma is removed.

The treatment regimen for periodontitis is somewhat different. The main method of removing pus is open curettage or flap surgery. The periodontist exfoliates the gum flap, opens access to the root and cleans it from hard plaque and decomposition products. The wound is disinfected, sutures or a periodontal bandage are applied. After a week, the stitches are removed.

Gingivectomy is performed in mild cases. An incision is made on the gum through which the pus is removed.

For pericoronitis, the hood is excised, allowing the tooth to erupt. It also ensures free outflow of pus. The wound is treated with an antiseptic solution, a bandage is applied.

In case of injury, the irritant is removed. If the gum injures the prosthesis, it is changed. A foreign object (a fish bone, for example) is removed. Provide an outflow of exudate.

Regardless of the cause of the abscess, antimicrobial therapy is mandatory. For better healing, dentists recommend salt baths for several days.

Common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as paracetamol can help relieve pain. After opening the abscess, relief quickly comes and painkillers are required only in the first day or two.

Home remedies

Folk healers advise rinsing the mouth with saline, soda solutions, infusions of sage, calendula, chamomile. It is recommended to use propolis in the form of alcohol lotions.

These remedies may temporarily relieve pain, but they do not eliminate the cause of the inflammation. Therefore, relief is temporary, inflammation increases and can result in serious complications. And alcohol infusions also lead to a chemical burn of the mucous membrane.

A tooth abscess cannot be cured without the intervention of a dentist. Only an integrated approach to treatment can stop the inflammatory process.

Why an abscess is dangerous

If the symptoms of inflammation are not severe, most people put off a visit to the dentist. This leads to complications, develops:

• Chronic tooth abscess
  The disease acquires a cyclic character: pus-fistula-outflow of pus-closure of the fistula. Then a cold, exacerbation of common diseases or another reason provokes a new cycle. Each time, the risk that pus will penetrate deep into the tissues or be carried by the bloodstream throughout the body increases.

• Phlegmon
  This is already a diffuse purulent process that captures large areas.