Can a Tooth Abscess Heal?

Are you experiencing intense pain in your tooth and/or gums? If so, there are a variety of different oral health issues that may be the culprit. One extremely serious cause of pain in the mouth is a tooth abscess.

Below is more about what an abscess is, the signs to look for, and whether it will heal on its own.

What is a Tooth Abscess?

A dental (tooth) abscess is a painful and potentially serious dental condition characterized by a pocket of pus that forms within a tooth, in the surrounding gum tissue, or in the bone supporting the teeth. The abscess forms as the body's immune system attempts to fight off the infection.

What Are the Signs of an Abscess?

There are a few signs you can check for to see if you have an abscess. Some of these signs include:

* Intense pain in your tooth or gums
* Redness in or outside the mouth
* a high temperature
* Difficulty chewing and opening the mouth
* Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks
* A bad taste in your mouth
* A swollen face or jaw

What Are the Causes of a Tooth Abscess?

A tooth abscess isn’t caused by one single thing. There are various conditions that can lead to the formation of an abscess. Some of the reasons behind an abscess include:

* Tooth decay
* Gum disease
* An impacted tooth
* Tooth or gum injury
* Chemotherapy or radiotherapy

Can It Heal on Its Own?

The short answer is, No.” A tooth abscess will not heal on its own. Instead, professional treatment will be required to properly address your tooth abscess.

When your dentist treats the abscess, they will start by draining the puss. From there, they will determine if the tooth can be saved. If so, your dentist will perform root canal therapy. If not, the tooth may be removed.

Can I Avoid a Tooth Abscess?

While there are some circumstances in which a tooth abscess cannot be avoided, often—with proper oral healthcare—they can. This includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing twice a day, every day. Make sure you spend at least 30 seconds in each quadrant of the mouth to ensure all of the food particles and bacteria are properly brushed away.

Another major component of proper oral healthcare is visiting your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. During this time, your dentist will check for signs of decay that may lead to an abscess over time.

With proper oral care, you significantly decrease the chances of a tooth abscess.

Reach Out Today

If you suspect you have a tooth abscess and/or you are experiencing pain in your teeth, jawbone, or gums, reach out today. We’ll schedule an appointment to take a look and determine the cause of the pain. From there, we will put a treatment plan in place to properly address not only the pain but also the underlying issue.

 

Dental Abscess Symptoms and Causes