How Do I Know If I Have a Tooth Abscess?
A tooth abscess isn't just bad for your teeth—it can also affect your overall well-being. But what exactly is a tooth abscess, and how can you know if you're dealing with one?
Below are details about this condition, how to spot its signs, and the steps you can take to get the right treatment.
Understanding Tooth Abscesses
A tooth abscess, also called a dental abscess, is an oral health condition that involves a pocket of pus forming. This pocket can appear within a tooth, the gum tissue around it, or even the bone supporting your teeth. The pus pocket shows up because your body's immune system is fighting an infection.
How Do I Know If I Have a Tooth Abscess?
Spotting a tooth abscess means looking out for a few clear signs. Keep an eye out for:
- Feeling serious discomfort in your tooth or gums.
- Noticing redness inside your mouth or on the outside.
- Running a higher body temperature.
- Having trouble eating or opening your mouth.
- Feeling more sensitive when you have hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Noticing an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
What Leads to an Abscess?
There are multiple reasons for tooth abscesses. These may include:
- Gum Disease
- Tooth or Gum Injury
- Tooth Decay
- Impacted Tooth
- Chemotherapy or Radiotherapy Treatments
Can It Get Better on Its Own?
Remember, a tooth abscess won't go away by itself. You need professional dental help to deal with it properly. Treatment starts by getting rid of the pus; then your dentist will check if they can save the tooth. If they can, they may perform a root canal. But if saving the tooth isn't an option, they might need to remove it.
Can I Prevent an Abscess?
While you might not be able to avoid a tooth abscess, good oral care can significantly lower your chances of getting one. That means brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash twice a day, every day. Spend at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth to make sure you're getting rid of all the food bits and bacteria.
Regular dental check-ups every six months are also a big part of keeping your mouth healthy. During these visits, your dentist can catch any problems early, so they don't turn into an abscess later on.
Contact Us Today
If you're worried you might have a tooth abscess or you're feeling pain in your teeth, jaw, or gums, don't wait to get help. Reach out to us, and we'll set up a time for you to come in. We'll figure out what's causing your discomfort and come up with a plan to fix the problem. Your oral health matters!