Extracting Abscessed Tooth
A tooth abscess is a painful condition that needs to be treated immediately. If the abscess is caught early, treatment options may be available that will allow the dentist to save the tooth. If the issue persists for too long and/or is too severe, though, extraction may be the only option.
Below is more about what an abscessed tooth is, the symptoms, and extraction.
What is an Abscessed Tooth?
A tooth abscess is a condition that is characterized by the presence of a pocket of pus caused by an infection in the tooth, gum tissue, or supporting bone structure. When an infection occurs, the body's immune system attempts to fight it off by creating a protective barrier of pus. This pocket of pus can lead to intense pain and may result in severe complications if left untreated.
What Are the Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth?
Below are some of the most common symptoms of an abscessed tooth:
* Intense pain in the gums or tooth
* Difficulties with opening the mouth or chewing food
* Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks
* Redness inside or outside the mouth
* High temperature
* Swelling of the face or jaw
* Bad taste in the mouth
What Are the Causes of a Tooth Abscess?
Various factors can contribute to the development of a tooth abscess. Some common causes include:
* Tooth decay
* Gum disease
* Gum or tooth injury
* An impacted tooth
* Chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatments
Extracting an Abscessed Tooth
While a dentist will do their absolute best to save and restore a tooth when they can, extraction becomes necessary when the damage is beyond repair. When this is the case, antibiotics and/or non-invasive methods are no longer effective.
Neglecting treatment for an abscess can lead to severe complications such as bone loss or infection of the surrounding tissues. As this is the case, if other restoration methods aren’t available, extraction is essential to alleviate pain and prevent further damage.
Can I Avoid a Dental Abscess?
Although certain circumstances may make it challenging to avoid a tooth abscess, practicing proper oral healthcare significantly reduces the risk.
Brush, floss, and rinse your mouth thoroughly twice a day, spending at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth to effectively remove food particles and bacteria.
Also, schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months. During these appointments, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth for signs of decay that could potentially lead to an abscess.
Contact Us
If you suspect that you have a tooth abscess or are experiencing pain in your teeth, jawbone, or gums, it is crucial to seek professional help.
Contact our office today for quality dental treatment services. We will evaluate your condition, determine the underlying cause of your pain, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan to address your oral health issues. Don't let the pain and consequences of a tooth abscess persist. Reach out today.