Experiencing a severe, unrelenting toothache? You may be suffering from an abscessed tooth- an infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. A tooth abscess begins when bacteria invade and infect a tooth. As a result, a pocket of pus is formed which causes painful pressure. Tooth decay is the leading cause of an abscessed tooth, but gum disease and dental trauma can also lead to an infection.
Persistent toothaches that result in throbbing or sharp pain are common symptoms of a tooth abscess. Other symptoms include:
- Pain when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Feeling of overall uneasiness or illness
- Redness and inflammation of the gums
- Bad taste in mouth or foul smelling breath
- Fever
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you'll want to visit Mendelson Family Dentistry, PA as soon as possible, as an abscess won't go away on its own. Delaying treatment can lead to serious health complications, including tooth loss and the spread of infection to your soft tissues or the jaw bone. An abscess that ruptures or a tooth root that dies as a result of the infection may reduce the pain significantly, but dental treatment will still be necessary as the infection remains active and can continue to spread to surrounding tissues.
Treatment for a tooth abscess may vary depending on the severity of the infection. At Mendelson Family Dentistry, PA our treatment plan focuses on eliminating the infection, preserving the tooth, and preventing further dental complications.
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is the best way to prevent dental problems that may lead to an abscessed tooth, including daily brushing, flossing and a healthy diet. Additionally, regular visits to our Owings Mills office for cleanings and check ups are also critical for detecting dental problems early.