Dental Abscess
Most people don’t know that dental abscesses can be a severe dental emergency.
An infection known as a dental abscess is brought on by bacteria that enter the dental pulp, the soft tissue, blood vessels, and nerves that make up the inside teeth.
Infection can affect the teeth and gums, spreading from the root to the jaw. In severe cases, the disease can even spread to a person’s entire body and lead to life-threatening conditions. With early detection, dental abscesses can be prevented and treated.
At Thornton Dental, we provide urgent care to patients with severe and complex dental concerns, such as dental abscesses. If you suffer from dental abscess symptoms, we recommend visiting us as soon as possible.
Causes of Dental Abscess
Bacterial infections primarily cause dental abscesses.
The main factors contributing to the development of an abscess include:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Insufficient brushing and flossing can cause plaque to accumulate, which can harbour bacteria. These germs can eventually lead to gum disease and tooth damage, resulting in an abscess.
- Tooth Decay: Untreated cavities can penetrate deeper into the tooth, reaching the pulp and causing an infection.
- Gum Disease: Periodontal disease can form pockets in the gums, which become breeding grounds for bacteria.
- Trauma: Cracked or chipped teeth can allow bacteria to infect the pulp or surrounding gum tissue.
- Weakened Immune System: People receiving chemotherapy or have diabetes, which compromises their immune systems, are more prone to infections, including tooth abscesses.
Symptoms of Abscessed Tooth or Gums
- Bad breath
- Sharp or throbbing toothache pain
- Susceptible teeth
- Fever
- A general feeling of illness
- Extreme pain when chewing
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- An open sore in the gums that drains and leaves a bitter taste aftertaste
- Enlarged neck glands
- Swelling of the jaw (in advanced cases)
First Aid for Dental Abscess
- If you see or feel a pimple growing on your gums or around your teeth, rinse your mouth with salt water.
- Make a peppermint tea, let it cool and gargle the lukewarm tea thoroughly.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers to lessen the pain.
- Put a warm compress against the cheek where the pain occurs.
- See your dentist immediately.
Treatment for Dental Abscess
The goal of the treatment is to remove the infection first to ensure that the tooth can be saved and further complications can be avoided. Your Thornton dentist will assess your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Dental abscess is treated with the following procedures:
- Antibiotic therapy
- Draining of the abscess
- Root canal therapy
- Tooth extraction
Once you experience the symptoms mentioned above, see us at our dental clinic to start appropriate treatment. If left untreated, dental abscess can be detrimental to your health and can cause the loss of life.
Prevention of Dental Abscess
Preventing dental abscesses involves maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental care:
- Regular Brushing and Flossing: Cleaning the teeth should be done at least twice a day, and dental floss should be used every day to remove the plaque and the particles of food.
- Routine Dental Check-ups: Frequent dental check-ups can aid in the early detection and treatment of oral health problems.
- Healthy Diet: Reduce your intake of sugary meals and beverages as they can aggravate tooth decay.
- Fluoride Use: Use fluoride toothpaste and consider professional fluoride treatments to strengthen teeth.
- Mouthguards: If you engage in sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury.
Dental Abscess Treatment in Thornton
We provide same-day appointments for dental emergency cases and comprehensive care for almost any dental emergency. Our experienced and responsive dental team provides treatment in a caring and compassionate manner.
Same-Day Dental Emergency Appointment Available in Thornton
Call us on (02) 4966 2996 or book your appointment online today!
Visit us at Thornton Shopping Centre, Shop 30/1 Taylor Ave in Thornton.