Dental abscess: Causes, symptoms and treatments

Dental problems can be a source of significant discomfort in daily life. In this sense, one of the most common is dental abscess.

A tooth abscess is a collection of pus inside a tooth or in the surrounding gums. Such an infection can be extremely painful and must be treated immediately.

In this article, from our Dental Clinic in Malaga, Gross Dentistas, we will provide information about its causes, symptoms and treatments.

Keep reading!

What are the causes of dental abscess?

Below, we show the main causes that cause a dental abscess.

Untreated cavities

When a cavity is not treated in time, bacteria can penetrate the dental pulp, the inner part of the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves. This creates an environment conducive to infection, eventually leading to the formation of an abscess.

Dental trauma

Dental trauma, such as a hard blow to a tooth, can damage tooth structure and allow bacteria access to the inside of the tooth.

Gum disease

Gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, can increase your risk of developing it.

This is because diseased gums can pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can accumulate and spread.

Weakened immune system

A weakened immune system due to medical conditions, such as diabetes, or the use of certain medications, can hinder the body’s ability to fight dental infections, increasing the risk of abscesses.

These are the symptoms of tooth abscess

Early recognition of the symptoms of a tooth abscess is crucial to seeking treatment in time and avoiding serious complications.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Severe pain: Pain is one of the most notable symptoms and can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to sharp, throbbing pain. The pain may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck.
• Facial swelling: The infection can cause swelling in the cheek or jaw, often accompanied by redness.
• Tooth sensitivity: Affected teeth may become extremely sensitive to heat, cold, or pressure.
• Halitosis or bad breath: The pus accumulated in the abscess can cause an unpleasant taste in the mouth and bad breath.
• Fever: In more severe cases, the infection can cause fever and general malaise.

What treatments are used to combat dental abscess?

Treatment of this pathology is essential to relieve pain and eliminate infection. Treatments can vary depending on the severity of the abscess, but some common options are:

• Drainage of the abscess: In most cases, it is necessary to drain the accumulated pus to relieve pain and stop the spread of infection. This is done successfully by the professionals of our dental clinic in Malaga, Gross Dentistas.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics are prescribed to fight the infection and prevent its spread to other parts of the body.
• Dental treatment: Once the infection is under control, additional dental treatment may be needed, such as a root canal to remove the infected pulp or tooth extraction in severe cases.

Prevention plays a crucial role in dental health. Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular check-ups at a Dental Clinic in Malaga like Gross Dentistas and addressing any dental problems early can help prevent tooth abscesses and other serious dental problems.

Don’t underestimate the importance of taking care of your dental health; Proper care can keep your smile bright and your mouth free from painful infections like tooth abscesses.

Contact us to get more information.