Dental abscesses are a type of dental infection that can develop due to bacteria entering the tooth or gums. These abscesses are a common dental problem that can be both painful and dangerous. If you're looking for information on what they are, how to treat them, or the best ways to avoid getting one in the first place, then this blog post is for you!
How serious is a dental abscess?
A dental abscess is a collection of pus that forms under or around the tooth. It can also form between two teeth. An abscess occurs when bacteria enter your gums and cause an infection to occur in one area of your mouth. The condition happens most commonly with molars, but a dental abscess can affect any tooth. The infection starts in the dental pulp, a layer of tissue within each tooth containing nerves and blood vessels, but it can rapidly spread to other parts of your mouth.
Symptoms of a dental abscess
The symptoms of a dental abscess are not the same for everyone. Some people may experience pain in their gums, swelling at the site of infection, and tenderness when they touch it. Others might only notice an area on their tooth or gum that has become discolored or feels harder than usual. Infections can cause your gums to start bleeding, and pus will often form on your tooth. If the infection spreads, you may experience pain in other areas of your mouth or throughout your face, as well as fever or chills.
Treatment options for dental abscess
If you notice any of the symptoms associated with a dental abscess, it's important to visit us as soon as possible. Depending on how advanced the infection is, treatment might involve teeth extraction or root canal therapy. Antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases, but this only works if the bacteria has not spread throughout your mouth and throat.
If an infection has spread, surgery may be necessary, and sometimes doctors have to remove all or part of your tooth's root along with surrounding bone tissue.
The only way to avoid this kind of treatment is by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly. Reach out to us for any dental-related matters, and we'll be glad to help.
Ranches Family Dental, 3435 E. Pony Express Parkway Suite 110 Eagle Mountain, UT 84005 / (385) 374-0500 / ranchesfamilydental.com / 10/10/2024 / Related Terms: dentist Eagle Mountain UT /
Dental abscesses are a type of dental infection that can develop due to bacteria entering the tooth or gums. These abscesses are a common dental problem that can be both painful and dangerous. If you're looking for information on what they are, how to treat them, or the best ways to avoid getting one in the first place, then this blog post is for you!