ABSCESSED TOOTH
An abscessed tooth is an infection caused by tooth decay, periodontal disease or a cracked tooth. These problems can allow bacteria to enter the pulp (the soft tissue of a tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue) and can lead to pulp death. When pus builds up it forms a pus-pocket called an abscess. If the abscess is not treated, it can lead to a serious infection in the jawbone, teeth and surrounding tissues.
Symptoms of an abscess include:
- pain
- swelling
- redness in the gums
- bad taste in the mouth
- fever
An abscessed tooth can be treated in a number of ways, depending on the severity of the infection. Here are some of the treatment methods a dentist may consider:
- antibiotics
- drainage of the infection
- cleaning the space between the tooth and the gum (if the cause is from gum disease)
- root canal treatment
- extraction of the tooth
Following good oral hygiene practices and seeing your dentist regularly will significantly reduce your risk of developing a tooth abscess.
If you, your family or friends need dental care, we would be honored to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care in our modern dental practice. Refer someone you love to someone you trust!
Presented as a service to the community by Doctors Hoover and Yanda,
39 Milford Drive, Hudson, Ohio 44236. 330-650-0360. www.drshooverandyanda.com