What is Tooth Abscess?

What is Tooth Abscess?

A tooth abscess is a bacterial infection in the nerve of a tooth (a pocket of pus) caused by tooth decay, periodontal disease or a cracked tooth. A tooth abscess occurs when bacteria invades dental pulp, nerve and blood vessels of the tooth. Bacteria enter the pulp and spreads to the root. When pus builds up at the root tip in the jaw bone, it forms a pus-pocket called an abscess. If the abscess is not treated, the bacterial infection causes pain, bad breath and inflammation and may lead to a serious infection in the jaw bone, teeth and surrounding tissues.

Signs and symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

• Severe toothache with pain
• swelling
• redness in the gums
• bad taste in the mouth
• fever
• sensitivity to hot and cold beverages or food

Tooth with abscess can be treated by several treatments based on American Dentist Association. Here are some of the treatments ways which maybe consider:

• A root canal treatment can eliminate the infection if the abscess is caused by tooth decay or cracked tooth.
• antibiotics, to destroy and stop the bacteria causing the infection

• drainage of the infection
• cleaning the space between the tooth and the gum if the cause is from gum disease
• If tooth cannot be saved, dentist will extract the tooth and drain the abscess to eradicate infection.

Dental Considerations:

Good oral hygiene practices and routine dental exams will significantly reduce your risk of developing a tooth abscess.

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to clean between your teeth on a daily basis.
• Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or whenever the bristles are frayed.
• Eat healthy food, limiting sugary items and between-meal snacks.

It is important to talk to your dentist about the problems you are experiencing and feeling in your mouth. Regular checkups will increase the likelihood that suspicious infections in your mouth are found early in between visits.