With a dental abscess, the intense throbbing pain is usually the first indication that you have an issue. Whether the abscess is due to an impacted tooth, gum disease or tooth decay, it’s important to treat an abscess and prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body. Here’s why calling your dentist right away is a smart move if you have a dental abscess.
Types of Dental Abscesses
A tooth has four layers of tissue: enamel, dentin, cementum and pulp. When the pulp chamber becomes infected with harmful bacteria the diseased pulp must be removed before the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues. An abscess is a formation of pus and is often found at various areas of the oral cavity depending on the type and cause.
Periapical Abscesses
A periapical abscess forms at the tip of the root of a tooth. This type of abscess usually occurs due to untreated cavities that allow bacteria to reach the innermost part of the tooth, known as the pulp.
Gingival Abscess
A gingival abscess occurs in the gums, often resulting from an injury or food particles stuck between the gums and teeth. It’s typically less severe than other types but still requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.
Odontogenic Abscess
An odontogenic abscess involves the structures supporting the tooth, including the bone and surrounding tissues. These abscesses can lead to significant pain and swelling and require an urgent response to avoid further damage.
Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
- Pain and Sensitivity
- Swelling
- Fever
- Bad Taste in the Mouth
- Difficulty Swallowing or Opening Mouth
Why a Dental Abscess Is a Dental Emergency
An untreated dental abscess can cause the infection to spread beyond the initial site. Bacteria may travel to the jaw, neck and even the brain, posing a life-threatening risk. The infection can also erode the surrounding bone and tissue, leading to the loss of the affected tooth and potentially nearby teeth. In rare cases, the infection from a dental abscess can spread to the bloodstream, causing sepsis—a life-threatening condition.
Why Is Emergency Dental Care Crucial for a Dental Abscess?
The sooner you contact a dentist, the sooner you’ll get a diagnosis and treatment plan. Not only does emergency dental care provide immediate pain relief through the use of painkillers and drainage of the abscess, but prompt treatment prevents the infection from spreading to other parts of the body. Emergency dental care services can not only help stop your suffering but can potentially save your life by lowering the risk of moderate or severe complications.
When to Seek Help: Recognizing a Dental Emergency
It is crucial to seek emergency advice and treatment if you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain
- Visible pus drainage
- Fever of over 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of face or neck
- Confusion
- Elevated heart rate
Treatment Options for Dental Abscess
If you have a dental abscess, here are some treatment options your dentist might recommend.
Drainage
A small cut is made in the abscess to drain the pus. The affected tooth and any affected gum tissue are then repaired.
Root Canal
Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp from the tooth, cleans the internal canals and seals them to prevent further infection. This treatment aims to save the natural tooth.
Extraction
In severe cases, a tooth abscess may have caused the internal structure of the tooth to be damaged beyond repair. The affected tooth may need to be removed to protect the health of the adjacent teeth and surrounding tissues.
Antibiotic Prescription
Antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection. They are often used in conjunction with other treatments to ensure complete eradication of the bacteria.
How Can You Prevent Future Dental Abscesses?
To prevent dental abscesses, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss after every meal to remove food particles and harmful bacteria that can lead to a tooth abscess. If you use a bacteria-fighting mouthwash, choose a non-alcoholic and non-abrasive option.
Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings help detect and address potential issues before they escalate into abscesses. Your dentist can provide personalized care and advice to maintain your oral health.
FAQs about Dental Abscesses
Can a dental abscess go away on its own?
No, an abscess will not dissipate without professional dental intervention. If the pain subsides, it may indicate that the tooth’s nerve has died but the harmful bacteria will continue to spread.
What are the long-term effects of a dental abscess?
Since a dental abscess forms as a result of an infection, without prompt treatment, the infection can spread to other parts of the oral cavity, the brain, the heart and throughout the body. In rare cases, these infections can be fatal.
What should I do if I suspect I have a dental abscess?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of a dental abscess, contact your dentist immediately.
What can I expect during emergency treatment for a dental abscess?
During emergency treatment, your dentist will drain the abscess, prescribe antibiotics if needed and develop a treatment plan to address the underlying cause of the infection.
How long does it take to recover from a dental abscess?
Recovery after a dental abscess treatment varies depending on the severity of the abscess and the chosen treatment. Generally, pain and swelling improve within a few days after treatment, but complete healing may take longer.
How much does dental abscess treatment cost?
Under the Ontario Dental Association, base prices for emergency dental care, which includes x-rays and treatment, range between $100 to $1,500.
Contact Princeview Dental Clinic for Dental Care in Etobicoke
At Princeview Dental Group, our team is here to assess and treat your dental abscesses and other oral problems. We offer affordable dental plans based on your needs. Call (416) 231-4562 today to schedule your appointment.
