What Is an Abscessed Tooth?
An abscessed tooth, also known as a dental abscess, is a pus pocket that forms when bacteria take up residence within the pulp of a tooth or in the gums. There are two main types of dental abscesses:
- Periapical Abscess: These occur at the base of the tooth in the gum line
- Periodontal Abscess: These generally appear on the side of the gums
All tooth abscesses share one thing in common: They’re often excruciatingly painful. Even without pain, they pose a serious risk to your oral and overall health. If left unattended, they can ultimately lead to the need for a dental extraction and result in bone loss in advanced cases. While a tooth abscess is a serious dental health concern, Weekend Dental Emergency Care has treatment options available for patients experiencing this issue.
Tooth Abscess Symptoms
If you’re experiencing multiple dental abscess symptoms from this list, get in to see our dentist as soon as you can.
- Toothache that is throbbing, severe, and persistent or that radiates throughout the ear, jawbone, and neck
- Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Uncomfortable pressure when biting or chewing
- Fever
- Swelling in the cheek or face
- Swollen lymph nodes that are tender and appear in the neck or jawbone
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
- A burst of foul-tasting, salty fluid in the mouth along with a foul-smell caused when the abscess ruptures
It is important to pay attention to these tooth abscess symptoms and seek help if you suspect you have one. Abscesses can become life-threatening without proper treatment. Left unattended, an abscess can rupture into the bloodstream and cause the beginnings of sepsis.
What Causes a Tooth Abscess?
A tooth abscess can be caused by poor dental hygiene, a high-sugar diet, dental trauma, smoking, gum disease, and even a weakened immune system. You can lower your risk of developing an abscessed tooth by practicing good dental hygiene daily.
Abscessed Tooth Treatment Options
Depending on your situation, there are a few ways to treat abscessed teeth:
- Antibiotics: For severe infections or to prevent spreading, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics.
- Drainage: Your dentist may drain the abscess to reduce pressure and release the pus.
- Root canal: If the dental abscess is affecting the tooth pulp, your dentist may perform a root canal to remove the infected tissue.
- Tooth extraction: In severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted to prevent further complications.
- Pain relief: Dental abscess pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen until you can see your dentist.
Weekend Dental Emergency Care Can Treat Your Abscessed Tooth
If you’re concerned that you may be experiencing symptoms associated with an abscessed tooth, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Weekend Dental Emergency Care. Our clinic is your go-to weekend emergency dentist in Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas. Left unattended, a dental abscess puts you at risk for greater complications, so don’t wait to call and schedule your next oral health appointment!
