Tooth Abscess

A tooth abscess is a collection of pus that forms in the teeth or gums as a result of an infection. It requires urgent treatment by a dentist and will not go away on its own.

Types of Tooth Abscess

A tooth abscess can occur in different areas near the tooth for various reasons:

• Periapical Abscess: Occurs at the tip of the tooth root.
• Periodontal Abscess: Occurs in the gums at the side of the tooth root.

Periapical Tooth Abscess

A periapical tooth abscess usually occurs due to untreated dental cavities, trauma, or previous dental work. Bacteria enter the innermost part of the tooth, causing infection and inflammation, which leads to an abscess at the root tip.

Periodontal Tooth Abscess

A periodontal tooth abscess is an infection that occurs in the gums at the side of the tooth root. This abscess is usually caused by gum disease or injury to the gums. Poor oral hygiene and gum diseases are the main causes of periodontal abscess.

Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess

Symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

• Severe, persistent, throbbing toothache
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Fever
• Swelling in your face, cheek, or neck
• Swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck
• Bad breath
• A rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth if the abscess ruptures

Causes of a Tooth Abscess

A tooth abscess usually occurs when there is an infection in your mouth, leading to the accumulation of pus under your teeth or gums. The main causes include:

• Impacted tooth
• Tooth decay or gum disease
• Injury to the teeth, gums, or mouth
• Radiation therapy or chemotherapy

Risk Factors for a Tooth Abscess

Risk factors for a tooth abscess include:

• Poor dental habits and care: Not taking proper care of your teeth and gums – not brushing twice a day and not using dental floss – can increase the risk of dental problems. These problems include tooth decay, gum disease, tooth abscess, and other dental and oral complications.
• High-sugar diet: Frequently consuming foods and drinks rich in sugar, such as sweets and sodas, can lead to cavities that can turn into a tooth abscess.
• Dry mouth: Having a dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay. Dry mouth is often a side effect of certain medications or aging-related issues.

Complications of a Tooth Abscess

A tooth abscess will not go away without treatment. Complications include:

• If the abscess ruptures, the pain may significantly decrease, but dental treatment is still necessary.
• If the abscess does not drain, the infection can spread to your jaw, head, and neck.
• If the tooth is located near the maxillary sinus (two large spaces under your eyes and behind your cheeks), it can cause an infection in the sinus cavity.
• It can even lead to sepsis, a life-threatening infection that spreads throughout the body.
• If your immune system is weakened and the tooth abscess is not treated, the risk of the infection spreading increases.

Prevention of a Tooth Abscess

Preventing a tooth abscess involves preventing tooth decay. Take good care of your teeth to avoid tooth decay:

• Drink fluoridated water.
• Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to clean between your teeth daily.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary foods and snacks between meals.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
• Consider using an antiseptic or fluoride mouth rinse for extra protection against tooth decay.

Treatment of a Tooth Abscess

Treatment of a tooth abscess is performed by an experienced dentist. The dentist will drain the pus and eliminate the infection. Root canal treatment or tooth extraction may be necessary. After the procedure, the dentist may prescribe pain relievers and antibiotics.