A dental abscess is an accumulation of pus caused by infection in the gums or tooth root.

Tooth Abscess Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A dental abscess is an accumulation of pus caused by infection in the gums or tooth root. This condition occurs as a result of an infection of the soft tissues inside the tooth that develops as a result of exposure to bacteria. A tooth abscess can be painful and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms and treatment options for tooth abscess.

Causes of Tooth Abscess:

• Tooth Decay One of the most common causes is dental caries and its progression to the pulp of the tooth. When the bacteria reach the pulp, infection begins.
• Dental Trauma: Dental trauma can cause a tooth to break or crack, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth.
• Periodontal Diseases: Gum diseases can reach the roots of the teeth through infections in the gum pockets and lead to dental abscesses.
• Complications in Dental Treatments: In some cases, complications can arise during dental treatment such as tooth extraction, filling or root canal treatment and infection can develop.

Symptoms of Tooth Abscess:

• Pain and swelling: A tooth abscess is usually characterized by severe pain and swelling. The pain is usually constant and intense.
• Tooth Sensitivity: A person with a tooth abscess usually experiences increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods, drinks or airflow.
• Swollen Gums: The area around the gums swells and becomes red. This is a symptom of the spread of infection.
• Bad breath Bacterial infections that develop with abscesses can cause bad breath.
• Swelling of the lymph nodes: A tooth abscess can cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the jaw area.
• Difficulty Swallowing: Severe dental abscesses can cause difficulty swallowing.
• General weakness and fever: Severe dental abscesses may be associated with systemic symptoms such as general malaise, fever and headache.

Tooth Abscess Treatment:

• Antibiotic Use: In the initial stages of a tooth abscess, doctors usually prescribe antibiotics. This can help control the spread and reduce the severity of the infection.
• Drainage Drainage of the pus where abscesses accumulate can help control the infection. This is usually a surgical procedure.
• Root Canal Treatment: If the cause of a tooth abscess is tooth decay or pulp infection, root canal treatment may be considered. This procedure aims to remove infected tissues inside the tooth and protect the tooth.
• Tooth Extraction If the tooth abscess is severe and treatment options are limited, tooth extraction may be considered.
• Pain Control Painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to control the pain.
• Surgical Drainage: In severe abscesses, surgical drainage may be required. This can help to control the pus and clear the infection.

Prevention of Tooth Abscess: 

• Good Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups can reduce the risk of dental abscesses.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Regular dental check-ups can help detect cavities and other potential problems early.
• Not to Neglect Dental Treatments: When tooth decay or other problems occur, it is important to contact the dentist immediately without delaying treatment.
• Healthy Eating Habits: Healthy eating habits can help maintain dental health.

A tooth abscess can be a serious condition and can spread and cause complications if left untreated. It is therefore important to consult a dentist when any symptoms appear. A professional assessment and treatment plan can help to effectively control a dental absc