Tooth Abscess is infection that affects the root of any tooth and causes acute pain. It occurs due to the bacterial infection. Infection results in a collection of pus (dead tissue, live and dead bacteria, and white blood cells) and swelling of the tissues within the tooth.
Causes of the Tooth abscess
- Tooth decay
- Trauma to the Tooth, fracture
- Poor oral hygiene, (such as not brushing and flossing properly or often enough
- Faulty tooth restoration
- Carious formation
- Pulpits
Symptoms
- Toothache
- Severe, continuous pain
- Pain when chewing
- Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold
- Bitter taste in the mouth
- Breath odor
- Swollen glands of the neck
- General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling
- Swollen area of the upper or lower jaw — a very serious symptom
- Sometimes causes difficulty in breathing.
Treatment
- People who have cavities or toothaches can take medicines, such as ibuprofen or naproxen as needed for relief of pain and inflammation.
- If an abscess ruptures by itself, warm water rinses will help cleanse the mouth and encourage drainage.
- Surgical drainage of the abscess or extraction of the affected tooth may be necessary.
- Root canal therapy may be recommended in an attempt to preserve the tooth.
Complications
- Loss of the tooth
- Facial cellulites, Ludwig’s angina
- Spread of infection to the jaw bone (osteomyelitis of the mandible or maxilla)
- Spread of infection to other areas of the body resulting in brain abscess, endocarditis, pneumonia, or other disorders
Prevention
- Remember to brush and floss after every meal and at bedtime.
- Avoidance of cigarette smoking and excess alcohol.
- Early diagnosis of caries and treating it.
- Should treat fracture tooth
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