Table of Contents
Effective Treatment Options for an Abscessed Tooth
Types of Dental Abscesses
The location of an abscess determines its type. The three most common types include:
Periapical Abscess
Forms at the tip of a tooth’s root due to bacterial infection in the pulp.
Periodontal Abscess
Develops in the gum near the tooth’s root and can spread to surrounding bone and tissue.
Gingival Abscess
Occurs on the gums, often caused by foreign objects like food particles or bristles.
Recognizing the Symptoms
- The most common sign of a dental abscess is persistent, throbbing pain near the affected tooth or gums. This discomfort typically starts suddenly and worsens over time.
Other symptoms include:
- Pain that spreads to the ear, jaw, or neck
- Increased discomfort when lying down
- Sensitivity to pressure while chewing or biting
- Redness and swelling in the face
- Inflamed, tender gums
- Loose or discolored teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or under the jaw
If the abscess bursts, the pain may subside quickly, but you may notice a sudden foul taste as the pus drains.
Causes of a Dental Abscess
Bacteria are the primary cause of dental abscesses, but how they infect the teeth or gums varies based on the type:
- A periapical abscess occurs when bacteria enter the tooth through cavities and reach the pulp, where nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels reside.
- Periodontal abscess is often linked to gum disease. But injuries or trauma can also contribute.
- A gingival abscess occurs when a foreign object, such as a popcorn kernel or toothbrush bristle, becomes lodged in the gums.
Treatment Options
- The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection and relieve pain. Your dentist may first conduct an X-ray to determine the extent of the infection before recommending one of the following treatments:
Draining the Abscess
- A small incision is made to drain the pus, followed by cleaning with a saline solution to remove bacteria.
Root Canal Therapy
- The dentist drills into the affected tooth to remove the infected pulp and drain the abscess. The pulp chamber and root canal are then sealed, and a crown may be placed later to restore strength.
Tooth Extraction
- If the tooth is beyond saving, extraction is necessary before draining the abscess.
Antibiotics
- If the infection has spread or the patient has a weakened immune system, oral antibiotics may be prescribed.
Removal of Foreign Objects
- If the abscess results from a trapped object, the dentist will remove it and clean the area thoroughly.
Managing Pain Before Treatment
- If you can’t see a dentist immediately, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can provide temporary relief. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also help reduce discomfort and bacteria buildup until you receive professional care.
Conclusion
- If left untreated, an abscessed tooth can cause severe pain and lead to serious complications. Seeking prompt dental care is essential to prevent the infection from spreading.Â
At Icon Dental, we offer comprehensive treatment options, including root canals, tooth extractions, and expert periodontal care to restore your oral health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a dental abscess, schedule an appointment with our team for effective and compassionate care in Seattle or Everett.
Our expert dentists are dedicated to providing the best periodontic treatment, from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and beyond. For consultations or bookings, call us at 206-225-2882 for Seattle and 425-337-2400 for Everett appointments.