Is a Dental Abscess an Emergency?
If you're dealing with mouth pain, you might be wondering if an abscess is the culprit and, if so, whether you should seek urgent care.
Below is information about what constitutes a dental abscess, whether it qualifies as an emergency, and the signs you can look out for to better determine if you have an abscess.
What is an Abscess?
A dental abscess, commonly known as a tooth abscess, materializes when a pocket of pus takes shape within a tooth, the adjacent gum tissue, or the bone that lends support to your teeth. The pus develops as a response from your immune system aimed at countering the infection.
Identifying the Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
To identify a dental abscess, watch out for these telltale symptoms:
- Pain in the gums or a tooth
- Swelling of the jaw or face
- Redness
- Difficulties with chewing or opening your mouth
- High temperature
- Poor taste in your mouth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks
The Causes of a Dental Abscess
Several factors can contribute to the emergence of a dental abscess. Some common culprits include:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Tooth or gum injury
- An impacted tooth
- Chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatments
Is a Dental Abscess an Emergency?
A dental abscess is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If left untreated, an abscess can lead to the need for a tooth extraction. Even worse, the abscess could trigger the spread of infection throughout your body, leading to severe and potentially life-threatening consequences. Swift dental intervention is vital to prevent the escalation of complications.
Taking Steps to Avoid a Dental Abscess
While it might be a challenge to avoid a dental abscess in certain scenarios, adopting a thorough and regular oral hygiene routine can substantially diminish the risk.
Make it a habit to brush, floss, and rinse your mouth twice daily—dedicating a minimum of 30 seconds to each quadrant of your mouth to effectively eliminate food particles and bacteria. Additionally, prioritize regular dental appointments every six months for thorough cleanings and checkups. These visits offer an opportunity for your dentist to examine your teeth and gums to uncover signs of decay that could potentially lead to an abscess.
Will an Abscess Heal on Its Own?
It's imperative to understand that a dental abscess won't resolve spontaneously. Seeking professional dental care is paramount to addressing the issue.
Typically, the treatment process entails draining the pus and gauging the feasibility of salvaging the affected tooth. In cases where preservation is viable, root canal therapy might be the solution. However, more severe situations might necessitate tooth extraction.
Assistance Is Just a Call Away
If you suspect the presence of a dental abscess or you're grappling with intense pain in your teeth, jawbone, or gums, prompt professional help is imperative.
Reach out to our office without delay to schedule an appointment for an evaluation. Our seasoned team will determine the cause of your pain and devise a comprehensive treatment plan to alleviate your discomfort and effectively address the root issue.