A bacterial infection can cause a tooth abscess, which is a collection of pus. An abscess can develop in different areas surrounding a tooth for a variety of reasons. There are two forms of abscesses: periapical and periodontal. Periapical abscesses develop at the tip of the roots, whereas periodontal abscesses occur in the gums adjacent to the base of a tooth.
What Are The Causes And Complications Of A Tooth Abscess?
When germs infect the dental pulp - the deepest portion of the tooth that includes blood vessels, connective tissue and nerves - a tooth abscess develops. Bacteria enter the tooth through a cavity, a fracture, or a wound, and may gradually spread to the root. Inflammation, redness, bleeding, and pain at the root tip are all symptoms of bacterial infection.
The discomfort is considerably reduced if the abscess breaks, but dental care is still required. If the abscess fluid remains there after a break, the infection might spread to the jaw and other parts of the mouth and neck. This could develop into sepsis, a very serious infection that can spread through your body. If you have a compromised immune system and do not treat a dental abscess, your chances of developing a general infection will increase even more.
How to Prevent Tooth Abscess?
The best thing to avoid a dental abscess is, of course, to first avoid tooth decay. Using fluoridated drinking water, brushing your teeth every day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing or using a dental cleaner to clean between your teeth, changing your toothbrush every three to four months, and visiting our dentist for regular checkups and professional cleanings are important aspects of oral care that patients must not ignore.
A dental abscess can put the quality of life of a patient at risk. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms related to dental abscesses, please contact us today to appoint a consultation. The earlier we treat the problem, the easier it is to solve it.
A bacterial infection can cause a tooth abscess, which is a collection of pus. An abscess can develop in different areas surrounding a tooth for a variety of reasons. There are two forms of abscesses: periapical and periodontal. Periapical abscesses develop at the tip of the roots, whereas periodontal abscesses occur in the gums adjacent to the base of a tooth.