Dental Abscess: What Is It, Causes and How Can You Prevent It?

Dental abscess is an infection that can occur in any part of the body, but it’s most commonly found in the mouth. Unfortunately, dental abscesses are quite common, and they can be extremely painful. In fact, they can even lead to permanent damage if not treated quickly and correctly. In this article, we will explore what a dental abscess is, its causes, and how you can prevent it from happening to you. We also have some tips on how to treat an already-established abscess if you find yourself in this situation.

It is important to recognize the signs of a dental abscess and contact a dentist in Raleigh NC as soon as you begin to experience any symptoms associated with it. 

What is a Dental abscess?

A dental abscess is a collection of pus inside the tooth caused by an infection. The most common cause is an oral bacteria called Streptococcus mutans, which can form when saliva mixes with plaque. Other causes include cavities, periodontal disease and other infections. Dental abscesses are Uncommon but can be very serious if not treated promptly.

The pain from a dental abscess typically begins in one or both cheeks and spreads to the temples or forehead. Fever may also occur. If left untreated, a dental abscess can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening. To treat a dental abscess, your dentist will first use an antibiotic medication to kill the bacteria that is causing the infection. This may require several treatments over a period of days or weeks. If the abscess is large or has spread beyond the teeth, surgery may be necessary to remove it.

Types Of Dental Abscess

There are three main types of dental abscess: sinus, oral and systemic. Sinus abscesses occur when the pus collects in one or more of the sinuses near the teeth. Oral abscesses occur when bacteria attach to the surface of the tooth and collect in a small space beneath it. Systemic (global) abscesses arise from an infection that has spread throughout the body.

To prevent dental abscesses, make sure to brush your teeth and mouth thoroughly twice a day and floss regularly. If you experience pain, redness or swelling in your mouth or face, see your dentist as soon as possible.

Causes Of Dental Abscess

The most common cause of dental abscess is a bacterial infection, but other causes include fungal infections and viral infections. Tooth decay or periodontal disease can also lead to dental abscess.

Toothache may be the first sign that you have a dental abscess. You may experience pain along the gum line or behind the teeth, as well as fever and chills. If you have difficulty eating, drinking, or talking because of the pain, you should see a doctor immediately.

If you have dental floss in your teeth and it gets stuck in the abscess, it can break down the surrounding tissue and worsen the infection. If you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge from your tooth or gums, see a dentist as soon as possible.

What are the symptoms?

Dental abscess is an infection of the tooth that progresses to a more serious stage if not treated. Signs and symptoms of a dental abscess may include: pain, swelling, redness, drainage and fever. If left untreated, a dental abscess can spread to other parts of the body and cause sepsis or death. To prevent dental abscesses, make sure to clean your teeth and gums properly and visit your dentist regularly for checkups.

How is an abscess treated?

An abscess is a localized infection in the tissue surrounding a tooth. The infection can form when bacteria enters through an opening in the tooth or when saliva accumulates and slowly thickens in the area around a tooth. Abscesses can occur on any tooth, but are most common on the front teeth (incisors).

The most common cause of an abscess is dental decay, which causes bacteria to collect and form pus. Other causes include trauma to the teeth (such as from a fall), foreign objects embedded in teeth, and tumors that grow near teeth. Abscesses may also develop from systemic infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis.

If you experience pain or swelling around a tooth, see your dentist for diagnosis and treatment. If an abscess is small and does not require surgery, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection. If an abscess is large or has ruptured (to allow infection to spread), surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tooth and prepare the area for restoration.

Preventing an abscess

An abscess is an inflamed pocket of pus that can form in any area of the body, including the teeth. They are usually caused by infection, and can be very painful. There are a few things you can do to prevent them from happening in the first place:

-Wash your mouth regularly with soap and water. This will help to remove bacteria and other debris that may be causing the infection.

-If you have any type of gum disease, make sure to see your dentist regularly for cleanings and repairs. This will help to remove plaque and other debris from your teeth, which can lead to infection.

-Avoid eating hard objects or foods that are difficult to chew. These items can irritate your gums and cause an infection.

-Be careful when flossing. Overused floss can irritate your gums and cause an infection. Try using a soft floss instead.

Conclusion

Dental abscess can be a very serious and painful condition that requires prompt treatment. It is caused by an infection due to poor oral hygiene or trauma to the teeth or gums. If left untreated, it can cause significant damage to your mouth and jawbone. Fortunately, there are some simple measures you can take to lower your risk of developing dental abscesses such as brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly and seeing your dentist for regular check-ups. With proper care and attention, you should be able to keep yourself safe from this potentially dangerous condition.

At New Hope Dental Care, our team of experienced dentists have the skills necessary to diagnose your condition quickly and provide you with effective treatment options to keep your oral health in top shape. Here, we explained what causes dental abscesses, how they are treated, and why getting prompt care from a dentist like those at New Hope Dental Care is essential for protecting your smile.