Tooth Abscess
What is a tooth abscess?
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the tissues around a tooth, under the gums, due to a bacterial infection. It can occur in different parts of the tooth and surrounding areas, leading to severe pain, swelling, and other health complications if left untreated. A tooth abscess is a serious dental condition that requires prompt attention, as it can spread to other parts of the body, causing potentially life-threatening complications.
Common Causes
- Tooth Decay
- The most common cause of a tooth abscess are cavities. When the bacteria decays the tooth and enters the nerve (pulp), they cause an infection which when generally left untreated - will result in an abscess under the root of the tooth.
- Severe Plaque and Tartar (Calculus) build-up
- Plaque forms on your teeth every day as a result of bacteria feeding on sugars from the foods you consume. When plaque is not removed thoroughly enough, it can accumulate and lead to gingivitis. Severe build-up of plaque and calculus can build-up under the gums resulting in a gum abscess which can cause excruciating pain.
- Past dental work
- We often see past dental work as a trigger for a dental abscess. This is generally due to fact that the previous treatment was done due to deep decay or complex tooth problems, which sometimes can result in an abscess many years later.
- Tooth trauma
- Trauma (or even teeth grinding) can cause teeth to crack, often resulting in the tooth splitting. When a tooth splits, bacteria is able to enter the tooth causes an infection which often results in a dental abscess
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Inconsistent brushing and flossing habits are the leading cause of gingivitis. Without daily removal of plaque and food debris from the teeth and gums, bacteria can quickly multiply and lead to inflammation and eventually, a tooth abscess.
Symptoms
- Dull throbbing pain
- The most notable symptom of a tooth abscess is an intense, throbbing pain that can radiate to the jaw, neck or ear. The pain may worsen when lying down or putting pressure on the affected area.
- Red and swollen gums
- Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. An abscess can cause the gums to become red, swollen and puffy.
- Bad taste in your mouth
- If the abscess "bursts", you may notice a sudden rush of foul-tasting or foul-smelling fluid in your mouth. This is pus (exudate) draining from the abscess, and while it may temporarily relieve pressure, the infection will remain and this cycle will happen again.
- Fever
- Systemic symptoms include a fever, fatigue and possible swelling of your face, neck and lymph nodes. This may lead to a difficulty in swallowing or breathing.
- Bad Breathe
- Persistent bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth may be a symptom of a dental abscess. This is often caused by the build-up of bacteria in the mouth, which produce sulphur compounds that lead to an unpleasant odour.
Why Choose Us
- Experienced Dentist
- Our clinic provides comprehensive tooth abscess assessments, addressing both simple and complex cases. While our skilled Dentists assess each situation individually, there may be instances where referral to a Specialist is recommended for optimal care.
- Comprehensive Dental Care
- We have a keen focus on treating your oral health as a whole, not just focusing on your teeth! We look at everything and anything that may affect your oral health. This includes your breathing (airway), your habits, your smile, your goals, your work etc. That's our comprehensive care promise to you.
- Friendly and calming Environment
- Our caring and professional team goes the extra mile (or kilometre in Australia) to create a relaxing experience for every visit. We understand that the dentist (and hence gum treatment) can be a source of anxiety and pain for some, and we work hard to provide a calming environment for all ages.
- We have calming music playing throughout the clinic and TVs to create that serene atmosphere.
- We treat all ages
- We love treating all ages! Whether you need a paediatric dentist for your little one or complex restorative dentistry for yourself or your parents, our tailored approach ensures that each patient receives the appropriate care, no matter the age.
- Prevention is better than cure!
- Here at Dental at Keys, we believe that prevention is the key to optimum oral health. That's why we will teach you the best ways to reduce your risk of another dental abscess.
Interested?
Contact us now on (03) 8899 6331 or check out our other services here.
Need help with payments?
We also have a variety of Payment Plans available - giving you the flexibility of paying for your tooth abscess treatment later.
Questions about Tooth Abscesses?
- What happens if a tooth abscess is left untreated?
- It is never a good idea to leave anything untreated. A dental abscess can lead to serious complications, such as the spread of the infection to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, and even the brain. In rare cases, untreated abscesses can cause life-threatening conditions like Ludwig's Angina.
- Can a dental abscess go away on its own?
- No, a dental abscess will not go away on its own. While the pain may temporarily subside if the abscess "bursts", the infection remains and can worsen over time. Prompt dental treatment is required to eliminate the infection and prevent further complications.
- How can I relieve tooth abscess pain at home?
- The best remedy for a dental abscess is to seek dental treatment as soon as possible. Whilst you wait for treatment, some remedies including rinsing your mouth with warm salt water, taking pain medication and applying a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling may temporarily help with symptoms
- How long does it take for a tooth abscess to heal?
- A dental abscess could potentially take many weeks to heal, depending on the severity of the infection. The longer you leave a dental abscess, the more likely it will require more complex treatment and hence may require a longer healing period.
