Do you know what a dental abscess is? In simple terms, it's a buildup of pus at the base of a tooth or in the area between your tooth and gums. This happens when bacteria invade your teeth or periodontal tissues. While an abscess might seem small, if left untreated, it can cause severe discomfort and spread further, potentially jeopardizing your oral health and overall well-being.
A periapical abscess occurs at the end of a tooth's root. It can arise from an untreated cavity, recurrent decay, or injury that affects your tooth's vital tissues. Each situation makes your tooth vulnerable to bacterial infiltration and damage, which can ultimately affect the tooth's nerve and other vital tissues, leading to an abscess with pus accumulating at the root tip.
In many cases, a root canal treatment with antibiotic therapy can address the source of your periapical abscess, prevent further infection, and preserve your tooth. However, you may need to get the tooth extracted in cases of extensive structural damage, supporting bone loss, or other considerations.
While also caused by bacterial infiltration, a gum or periodontal abscess has a different origin and typically occurs alongside the tooth. It usually happens when dental plaque and food debris get left around your teeth and gums. This accumulation triggers an inflammatory process that causes the pocket or gap between your teeth and gums to worsen, making it even harder to clean. Pockets that trap bacteria and debris can lead to an abscess. If left untreated, a periodontal abscess can cause a larger infection, pain, bone loss, tooth loss, and even pose consequences for your overall health.
If you notice a gum bubble in the area below the base of your tooth's root or between your teeth, and are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, it's time to seek care from our dental office:
In all cases, the key to protecting your health is getting the prompt attention and care required. When left untreated, a dental infection can quickly become more serious and have severe consequences. If you experience severe swelling, a high fever, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
At our dental office, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate and personalized care to each of our patients. Our dedicated staff works hard to ensure that your visit is comfortable and stress-free. With a wide range of services provided by our experienced dentists, you can trust us to handle all your dental needs.
If you're experiencing any signs or symptoms of a dental abscess, don't wait! Contact our office today for an appointment. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you and help you get back on the path to optimal oral health.