What to Do If You Discover a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a dental emergency and is an infection of the mouth, face, jaw, or throat that begins with a tooth infection. It usually occurs at the base of a tooth or in the gums and is common because of uncontrolled dental caries, gum illness, or trauma to the teeth. Knowing the signs of a dental abscess and what to do about it is essential for your oral health. This article is written thoroughly to guide you on what to do if ever you suffer from a dental abscess- will include symptoms, treatment options, and preventive methods

Knowing a Dental Abscess

A dental abscess occurs when bacteria infiltrate the pulp of a tooth and cause an infection. It can lead to the inflammation of pus which accumulates at that place and causes swelling or pain. The types of dental abscesses based on location are as follows:

1. Periapical Abscess: This type of abscess occurs on the tip of the tooth root, and it is generally a result of tooth decay or injury.
2. Periodontal Abscess: This develops in the gums near the root of a tooth and is often caused by gum disease.
3. Gingival Abscess: found within the gum tissue and often associated with infections of the gums.

Immediate Steps to Take

Below, we list some tips on controlling dental abscess tooth pain and discomfort through the wait for your dental appointment:

1. Warm Salt Water Rinse: Add half a tsp of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse the mouth. This can calm down the inflammation as well as help some of the infection seep through.
2. OTC Pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers including ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help to relieve hip pain. Use the product as directed and contact your healthcare provider with any questions.
3. Cold Compress: Place a cold compress on the outside of your cheek, near the area that is infected to reduce swelling and numb pain. Apply the compress for 15-20 minutes at a time with intervals when you take breaks.
4. Stay Away from Certain Foods: Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks that could make the pain worse. Opt for easily chewable food (soft).

Getting Professional Help

Treatment for a dental abscess can get rid of the infection and help prevent serious complications. Usually, your dentist pretty much does the following:

1. Diagnostic: A dentist will perform a comprehensive examination of the extent and specific site of an infection — using X-rays as well.
2. Abscess Drainage: The dentists will have to drain the abscess to remove pus and reduce pressure. This is usually performed by local anesthesia to reduce pain.
3. Infection Treatment: Antimicrobial, Infection-fighting medication will be distributed to remove the infection-causing bacteria, given that the infection has not been remedied alone or is still there after debridement. You need to finish the entire dose of antibiotics, even if you feel better before the meds run out.
4. Treating the Root Cause: Once the abscess is taken care of, your dentist will focus on treating the root of the problem that caused it in the first place, which may involve filling a cavity, fixing a broken tooth so bacteria can’t get in or even pulling out the tooth if necessary.

If left untreated, a dental abscess will not heal on its own and can cause unbearable pain, along with more serious complications down the road. So if you identify its symptoms sooner, take quick moves for immediate relief to make yourself feel comfortable, or consult the dental professional in person then you can best handle this condition without worry.