Tooth Abscess

Tooth abscesses can form at different areas inside the mouth, and they need to be treated before they damage the oral tissues.

Tooth abscess

A tooth abscess occurs when a bacterial infection affects the gum and causes a pus-filled pocket.

Types of dental abscess:

• Gingival abscess, which affects only the gums.
• Periapical abscess, which manifests at the tip of the tooth root, and if the tooth is decayed or fractured, the infection can spread to the pulp.
• Periodontal abscess, which starts in the bone and tissues that support the teeth.

Causes of tooth abscess

Bacteria seize the opportunity to get into the tooth or surrounding tissue when there is an opening for that. Causes of dental abscess include:

• Cracked, broken, or chipped teeth.
• Severe cavities.
• Tooth injuries that affect the pulp, like traumas.
• Periodontal disease (gum disease).

Symptoms of tooth abscess

• Gnawing, throbbing, or sharp pain that might be continuous or manifest only while chewing, and it may radiate to the jawbone, neck, or ear.
• Tooth sensitivity.
• Bad breath.
• Swollen and red gum.
• Bitter taste in the mouth.
• Loosening of the affected tooth.
• Open and draining sore on the side of the gum.
• Swelling in the area of the upper or lower jaw.
• Fever.
• Swollen lymph nodes.
• General ill feeling.

Diagnosis of tooth abscess

• Teeth and gum examination.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of tooth abscess

• Draining the abscess.
• Root canal.
• Tooth extraction in some cases.
• Antibiotics.
• To reduce the risk of an abscessed tooth, practice good oral hygiene, use dental floss, and visit the dentist regularly.