An abscessed tooth is essentially a pus pocket that forms within the tooth. It can occur in different parts of the tooth, and it can create significant discomfort for you. Often caused by a strain of bacterial infection, preventative measures can ensure that you’ll never have to deal with this type of an issue. If you’ve unfortunately run into the problem of an abscessed tooth, it’s important to get it cared for immediately. If not, further implications such as severe illness or even death can occur. If you think you might be suffering from an abscessed tooth and want more information on the matter, keep reading below for potential symptoms and treatment methods.
Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth
The symptoms associated with an abscessed tooth are usually easy to spot and differentiate between dental issues. That’s because the symptoms are distinct. If you have one or a combination of any of the symptoms associated with an abscessed tooth, visit the dentist immediately. One of the most telling signs of this issue is if you have a foul taste in your mouth. This taste is generated from puss leaking into your mouth after the abscess bursts. If the abscess doesn’t burst, though, other symptoms include pain when adding pressure in the mouth, swollen gums, tooth sensitivity, ear, jaw, and neck pain, and bad breath.
All of these are signs that your body is trying to fight an infection. Speaking of infection, the classic symptoms of infection to watch out for include headaches or fevers and tender lymph nodes in your neck or under the jaw. If any of these symptoms are apparent in your case, it’s imperative you visit your dentist’s office to identify whether you have a dental abscess. They can then take care of the issue for you.
Causes of an Abscessed Tooth
Sometimes the causes of dental abscesses are out of your hands. There are various types of bacteria that can lead to this oral problem, so understanding how each is acquired is important. One form of bacteria causes what is called a periapical abscess. This occurs when bacteria manage to enter the pulp of your tooth, often through a hole or a cavity.
The second form of abscessed tooth comes from gum disease and is considered a periodontal abscess. This is more likely if you suffer from periodontal disease like gingivitis.
The last form of dental abscess is called a gingival abscess. These form when a foreign body gets imbedded into the gums. Common examples of these foreign bodies include popcorn kernels and bristles from a toothbrush. Whatever the cause of your abscessed tooth, there is a cure.
Treatment Options for an Abscessed Tooth
Depending on the severity and the progression of the dental abscess, there are different treatment methods that your dentist may take to fix the issue at hand. If the abscess isn’t threatening other oral features, your dentist will likely drain the pus and clean the area.
This should cure the issue. If the problem is more severe, a root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary. These would be recommended if the condition of your tooth was too damaged to be repaired by other means. Ultimately, there are various treatment options if you are diagnosed with an abscessed tooth.
Schedule An Appointment Today
If you have symptoms of an abscessed tooth, it’s important to visit your dentist immediately. If you don’t, you risk further infection. At Inglewood Family Dental, we can help you take care of that abscessed tooth, so you won’t have any pesky side effects. We offer a consultation, too. This means that you can come in and have us take a look at the pain you’re experiencing. If it’s truly an abscess tooth, we can recommend treatment options and continue from there. Be sure to contact Inglewood Family Dental and set up an appointment for your complementary consultation today!
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