What is Abscessed Tooth? Its Causes and Treatment

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Abscessed Tooth

An abscess on the tooth is usually pus caused by bacteria. It can occur anywhere on the tooth, for various reasons. The three main kinds of abscesses are:

  1. Periapical abscess – on the tip of the tooth
  2. Periodontal abscess – on the gum next to the root of the tooth
  3. Gingival abscess – on the gums

Symptoms

  1. Pain in ear, jaw, neck
  2. Worsening pain when you lie down
  3. Pain during eating
  4. Facial redness
  5. Swollen gums
  6. Sensitive tooth
  7. Loose tooth
  8. Discolored tooth
  9. Halitosis, foul taste in the mouth
  10. Tender lymph nodes under your jaw
  11. Fever (as it is an infection)

Causes

  1. Untreated tooth decay
  2. Broken tooth
  3. Gum infections (especially periodontitis)
  4. Insufficient dental hygiene
  5. High sugar intake
  6. Dry mouth (Can be caused by certain medications or illnesses)

Relieving pain if the dentist is unavailable

  1. Teeth can get very sensitive in this time so avoid hot or cold drinks
  2. Abscesses are sensitive to pH changes, so avoid acidic drinks
  3. OTC painkillers, like panadol, can help reduce the pain
  4. Floss between the teeth that hurt the most, so any food particles or plaque can be removed, so that there is fewer chances of a further infection
  5. Get a temporary filling from the pharmacy
  6. Sleep with an elevated head
  7. Rise regularly, with warm saline water

Diagnosis

To diagnose the teeth, doctors usually tap the teeth, see if it is hollow. If they are unsure, they get CT scans and X-rays to examine the situation.

Treatments

  1. Draining the pus
  2. Getting a root canal performed
  3. Taking out the infected tooth
  4. Medicating with antibiotics – on doctor’s recommendations

Prevention

What is Abscessed Tooth? Its Causes and Treatment: Avoiding tooth decay is essential to preventing a tooth abscess. Take good care of your teeth to avoid tooth decay:

  • Use fluoridated drinking water.
  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a 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.
  • Visit your dentist for regular checkups and professional cleanings.
  • Consider using an antiseptic or a fluoride mouth rinse to add an extra layer of protection against tooth decay.

CARDS DENTAL

Author Since:  September 18, 2018

DENTIST

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