What is an abscess?
An abscess is a collection of pus and other materials that builds up beneath the skin. It is usually caused by an infection, such as a bacterial infection. An abscess can be painful and cause swelling in the affected area.
Symptoms of an abscess
Most commonly, an abscess will cause tenderness in the affected area.
You may also have one of the following:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swelling and/or pain in the area of the abscess
- A fever
- Bad breath.
Causes of an abscess
There are several potential causes of an abscess. One of the most common is a bacterial infection, either from an external source such as a cut or scrape, or an internal source such as an untreated infection.
These things can increase the risk of developing an abscess:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Gum disease
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Dental trauma
- Tooth decay
- Insufficient saliva flow
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Certain medications
Additionally, individuals with a compromised immune system may be particularly susceptible to developing dental abscesses.
Diagnosis and treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for successful healing of the abscess.
How is an abscessed tooth treated?
An abscessed tooth is typically treated with antibiotics to combat the infection and reduce inflammation around the affected area. Depending on the severity of the abscessed tooth, a root canal procedure may be required to remove the infected tissue, seal off the tooth and prevent further infection. In some cases, the tooth may need to be extracted if it cannot be saved.
How can I relieve the pain of a tooth infection?
over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen can be used to help reduce discomfort and inflammation associated with the abscess.
It is important to note that these medications are not a substitute for professional medical care, and should not be used to delay seeking treatment for a tooth abscess.