A dental abscess refers to a painful and often inflamed condition that occurs when a bacterial infection infiltrates the tooth's root or the surrounding gum tissue. Also known as a tooth or gum abscess, it typically appears as a pocket of pus that forms due to the accumulation of bacteria, dead tissue, and white blood cells.
The most common cause of a dental abscess is tooth decay that penetrates deep enough to reach the dental pulp or when a tooth is damaged or broken, leaving the internal structure exposed. When bacteria enter through these vulnerabilities, they multiply rapidly, leading to infection. As the infection progresses, it can spread to the surrounding tissue and bone, resulting in increased swelling, throbbing pain, and potentially causing further complications.
Common symptoms of a dental abscess include severe and continuous toothache, swollen gums, tenderness or sensitivity when chewing, persistent bad breath, fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. If left untreated, the abscess can rupture, causing the pus to drain into the mouth or even the bloodstream, potentially leading to serious health consequences.
To diagnose a dental abscess, a dentist typically conducts a visual examination and may also perform dental X-rays to evaluate the extent of the infection. Treatment options commonly involve draining the abscess, eliminating the infection through root canal therapy or extraction of the affected tooth, and administering antibiotics to clear the infection from the body. Pain relief medications may also be prescribed to ease discomfort during the healing process.
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help prevent dental abscesses by reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
