What is a Dental Abscess? Understanding the Infection
Types of Dental Abscesses
Periapical Abscess
Periodontal Abscess
Gingival Abscess
Recognizing the Red Flags: Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
The Most Common Symptoms
- Severe, Persistent, Throbbing Toothache: This is the hallmark symptom of an abscess. The pain can be sharp, shooting, or gnawing and may radiate to your jawbone, neck, or ear. The pain often comes on suddenly and worsens over time.
- Sensitivity to Hot and Cold: An abscessed tooth often becomes extremely sensitive to temperature changes. You might feel a sharp jolt of pain when drinking a cold beverage or eating hot soup.
- Pain When Chewing or Biting: The pressure from biting down on the affected tooth can be unbearable. The inflammation around the root tip makes the area tender and painful to any pressure.
- Swelling in Your Face or Cheek: As the infection progresses and pus accumulates, you may notice visible swelling on the outside of your face, near the affected tooth. This is a clear sign that the infection is spreading to the surrounding soft tissues. If you have a swollen jaw , you need to see an emergency dentist immediately.
- Swollen, Tender Lymph Nodes: Your lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck may become swollen and tender as your body tries to fight the infection.
- Fever: A fever is a systemic sign that your body is battling a significant infection. An abscess accompanied by a fever is a serious medical concern.
- Sudden Rush of Foul-Tasting Fluid: If the abscess ruptures, you might experience a sudden bad taste and smell in your mouth, followed by relief from the pain. While the pain may decrease, the infection is still present and requires treatment.
- Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing: This is a sign of a severe, advanced infection that may be spreading to the floor of your mouth or your airway. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate hospital care.
The Dangers of an Untreated Dental Abscess
Sepsis: A Life-Threatening Complication
- High fever or low body temperature (chills)
- Rapid heart rate
- Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
- Confusion or disorientation
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Clammy or sweaty skin
Ludwig’s Angina
Brain Abscess
Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis
Fast Treatment Options for a Dental Abscess in Glendale
Incision and Drainage
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Root Canal Treatment
Tooth Extraction
Periodontal Treatment
Antibiotics
Preventing a Dental Abscess: Proactive Steps for Glendale Residents
Maintain Rigorous Oral Hygiene
- Brush Twice a Day: Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth.
- Floss Daily: Flossing is essential for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line, areas your toothbrush can’t reach. This is critical for preventing both cavities and gum disease.
- Use Mouthwash: An antiseptic or fluoride mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection against plaque and bacteria.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Wear a Mouthguard
Regular Dental Check-ups and Cleanings
- Identify and treat cavities while they are small, before they can reach the pulp.
- Detect early signs of gum disease and provide treatment.
- Professionally remove hardened plaque (tartar) that you can’t remove at home.
- Screen for any other potential issues with X-rays.