An abscess is an infection in or around the root of the tooth which may or may

not be painful.

It's most commonly caused by severe tooth decay.

Other causes of tooth abscess are trauma to the tooth, such as when it is

broken or chipped, and gingivitis or gum disease.

These problems can cause openings into the tooth enamel, which allows

bacteria to infect the center of the tooth also called the pulp. The infection may

also spread from the root of the tooth to the bones supporting the tooth.

Symptoms:

Fever

Bitter taste in the mouth

Tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck

Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures

Redness and swelling of the gums

An open, draining sore on the side of the gums Severe, persistent, throbbing pain radiating to the jawbone, neck or ear

Sensitivity to the pressure of chewing or biting

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a dentist even if the pain subsides.

Risk factors:

Poor dental hygiene. Not taking proper care of your teeth and gums can increase

your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, tooth abscess, and other dental complications.

A high sugar diet. Frequently eating and drinking foods rich in sugar, such as sweets

and sodas, can contribute to dental cavities and turn into a tooth abscess.

Complications:

If the abscess ruptures, the pain may decrease but if the abscess doesn't drain, the

infection may.

spread to your jaw and to other areas of your head and neck.

You might even develop sepsis which a life-threatening infection that spreads throughout

your body.

If you have a weakened immune system then your risk of a spreading infection increases

even more.

A Periapical abscess occurs at the tip of the root, whereas a periodontal abscess occurs inthe gums.

next to a tooth root. The information here refers specifically to Periapical abscesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Periapical tooth abscess?

A Periapical tooth abscess occurs when bacteria invade the innermost part of the tooth that contains blood

vessels, nerves and connective tissue (pulp). Bacteria enter through a dental cavity or down to the root. The

bacterial infection can cause swelling and inflammation at the tip of the root which is called Periapical abscess.

2. How can an abscess tooth be diagnosed?

If you have an abscessed tooth, you will feel pain when the tooth is tapped by your dentist's probe. In addition, because

your gums may be swollen and red, your dentist may suspect an abscessed tooth.

3. What are the treatment options for abscess tooth?

Root surgery is generally recommended to remove diseased root tissue after the infection has

subsided. After that, a crown may be placed over the tooth.

Other option is extraction of infected tooth, allowing drainage through the socket.

Lastly, a third way would be by incision into the swollen gum tissue.

4. How can abscess be prevented?

Maintaining good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of developing a tooth abscess. Also, seek prompt

dental attention, if your teeth experience any trauma (for example, become loosened or chipped)

5. When is the right time to seek a dentist?

If you have fever and swelling around your face,

immediately book an appointment with a dentist.

These symptoms may indicate that the infection has

spread deeper into your jaw and also in the

surrounding tissue or even to other areas of your

body.

This condition needs proper assessment and

treatment plan so it is prevented from becoming

serious condition in future.

For more information, you can book an appointment at Dr Sachdeva’s Dental Aesthetic And Implant Institute ,

I-101, Ashok Vihar Phase 1, Delhi- 110052

Contact us atPhone : +919818894041,01142464041Our Websites: www.sachdevadentalcare.comwww.dentalcoursesdelhi.comwww.dentalimplantindia.co.in

Email :- drrajatsachdeva@gmail.com , surgicalmasterdelhi@gmail.com