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Dental abscess

Abscesses cause inflammation and swelling and can be very painful. They are usually caused by an infection and can worsen if left untreated.

A dental abscess is a collection of pus that can form at the root of a tooth (periapical abscess) or in the gums or bone that holds the teeth in place (periodontal abscess). It is caused by a bacterial infection. If you think you may have a dental abscess, it is very important that you come see us as soon as possible, because abscesses do not disappear on their own. Sometimes you may think that the tooth is better, healed, but in reality, the pus has drained, which is why it loses its volume. However, after a few days, it will refill with infected fluid.

Abscesses can not only be very painful, but without prompt treatment, they can lead to more serious health problems.

Where can a dental abscess occur?

As we have already mentioned, you can have abscesses inside the tooth (periapical abscess), or abscesses in the bone or gums (periodontal abscess).

Wisdom teeth can be prone to infections and abscesses, but in these cases it is called pericoronitis.

They can also appear on the cheek, under the tongue, or even in the throat.

What is a dental abscess?

If visible, a draining abscess may resemble a sore. The area where the pus drains is called a fistula, and it is responsible for the volume of the abscess (phlegmon) changing depending on whether or not it can be emptied.

An abscess is a pocket of pus that has accumulated under the gum. It can be caused by a variety of reasons, usually due to a pre-existing dental condition or poor oral hygiene.

While the infection persists, pus will continue to accumulate, so it tends to become more painful. Eventually, the abscess may burst or need to be drained. When the abscess drains spontaneously, the pain disappears, but that doesn't mean the problem is solved.

What are the symptoms of a dental abscess?

A dental abscess can give you symptoms such as:

  • A sharp pain in the affected area. This may spread to other areas, such as the ear or face.
  • Heat, redness and/or swelling of the affected area, due to inflammation.
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks.

What should you do if you have an abscess?

Please call us and make an emergency appointment as soon as possible and mention to the reception team that you think you may have a dental abscess.

  • If it hurts a lot, take anti-inflammatories and painkillers.
  • Avoid hot foods and drinks and try to chew on the other side of your mouth.
  • Don't stop brushing your teeth, use a soft toothbrush around the affected area.
  • Using 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash twice daily will reduce the bacterial load in your mouth and may help.

Aún así, lo más importante es que vengas a vernos para poner una solución definitiva a la infección.

How are dental abscesses treated?

You should not delay treatment for a dental abscess because it is a bacterial infection.

If the diagnosis is confirmed as a dental abscess, the dentist may drain it and perform a root canal and prescribe antibiotics for the infection. If we prescribe antibiotics, follow the instructions and be sure to finish the course, or the infection may not completely clear up, causing symptoms, including pain and swelling, to return.

How to avoid getting an abscess?

Visit us regularly for checkups and hygiene to ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned regularly and follow our oral hygiene tips and recommendations at home.

Before brushing your teeth, floss or use interdental brushes. Brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time, and try not to rinse your teeth after brushing, as this removes the fluoride from the toothpaste. You can use an antibacterial mouthwash 30 minutes after brushing. For more information on oral hygiene, visit our post at this link.

Do you think you might have a dental abscess? Contact Semüi and we'll schedule an appointment with you as soon as possible.

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