A dental abscess is an advanced dental infection that represents a dental emergency in most cases. That is why our dentists in LaSalle offer you important information about this pathology, in order to enable you to know how to react well.
Types of dental abscesses and their causes
A dental abscess is an advanced infection, of which there are two main types. In any case, the dental abscess can cause severe pain, swelling of the area of the face that is affected, as well as the flow of pus inside the mouth. Here are the two main types of dental abscess and the associated causes:
Gingival abscess: it is caused by periodontal diseases in most cases. The latter cause the formation of periodontal pockets, spaces between the tooth roots and the gum where bacteria accumulate. The periodontal pockets can become infected and cause necrosis (death) of the surrounding tissues.
Periapical abscess: This type of abscess is caused by an infection that reaches the end of the tooth root. Such an infection can be caused by , by a dental fracture. In rare cases, periapical abscess may occur after dental treatment.
Symptoms of a dental abscess
In most cases, any dental abscess will cause symptoms that are easy to recognize. Their presence should prompt you to consult a dentist immediately so that he can treat the infection and relieve your pain.
Here are the main symptoms that are associated with the presence of a dental abscess:
• Sharp and constant pain in the area where the abscess is located. The pain is exacerbated to the touch or during feeding and chewing;
• The swelling of the gum in the region where the abscess is located, which is caused by the accumulation of pus. It can also cause swelling of the face;
• Fever, which is a symptom of infection;
• Persistent bad breath due to the large proliferation of bacteria in the mouth;
• The flow of pus inside the mouth when the abscess is punctured.
Treatment of dental abscess to prevent complications
Dental abscess is associated with serious complications, hence the importance of prompt consultation with a dentist when you notice the symptoms mentioned above. Indeed, the infection that causes the abscess is likely to spread to other parts of the body, or even vital organs. In the most severe cases, if the infection reaches the heart or brain, there is a risk of coma or even death.
Fortunately, the treatment of a dental abscess is relatively simple in most cases. The dentist makes an incision of the oral tissues to drain the abscess. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to slow down the progression of the infection. When the abscess is caused by deep decay or a tooth fracture that has touched the root of the tooth, it may need to be extracted. In this case, your dentist will suggest the appropriate treatment to replace the extracted tooth and to protect the integrity of your smile.
If you suspect the presence of a dental abscess, be sure to react quickly to prevent serious complications that are associated with this condition. The team at the Dents Mon Quartier clinic, in LaSalle, will do what it can to see you quickly to treat this dental emergency!>
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D