The word "gumboil" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /ˈɡʌmbɔɪl/. The initial "g" is pronounced as a hard "g" sound, like in "go". The next letter "u" is pronounced like the "u" in "hut" with a slight emphasis on the "m". The "b" is pronounced as a the letter "b" would normally be. The "oi" is pronounced as a diphthong, blending the sounds of "o" and "i". Finally, the word ends with an "l" sound, similar to "le" in "little".
Gumboil, also known as a dental abscess, is a common dental condition that occurs as a result of an infection in the tooth or gums. It is characterized by a painful, inflamed area filled with pus that forms around the tooth or in the surrounding soft tissues. The term "gumboil" is derived from the Latin word "gummi" meaning "gum" and the Old English word "bolle" meaning "a swelling or blister."
The main cause of gumboil is dental decay or a bacterial infection that starts in the tooth pulp, which is composed of nerves and blood vessels. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, leading to the formation of a pocket of pus. Gumboils can also be a result of periodontal disease, trauma to the tooth or gum, or a failed dental procedure.
Symptoms of gumboil include severe pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, and occasionally a bad taste in the mouth due to drainage of pus. In some cases, the infection may cause fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general malaise.
Treatment for gumboil typically involves draining the pus by a dentist or oral surgeon, followed by a thorough dental cleaning and root canal treatment if necessary. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to eliminate the infection. Pain medication and warm saltwater rinses may help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, along with routine dental check-ups, is crucial for preventing gumboils. Prompt treatment of dental decay and avoiding trauma to the teeth and gums are also important preventive measures.
Parulis, a small abscess of the gum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "gumboil" derives from the combination of two different words - "gum" and "boil".
The term "gum" can be traced back to the Middle English word "gome", meaning the soft tissue surrounding the teeth. It further originates from the Old English word "goma", which referred to the mouth or jaws. This Old English word ultimately comes from the Proto-Germanic language, where "gum-" indicated a sticky or adhesive substance.
The word "boil" comes from the Old English word "bȳle", which meant a swelling containing pus. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "bulōną", indicating to swell or inflate.
When combined, "gum" and "boil" form "gumboil", which specifically refers to an abscess or infection that develops within the gum tissue.