Dental abscess

What is it

Dental abscess is a collection of purulent material that results from an infection of a tooth and the tissues on which the tooth rests.

Depending on the location of the abscess, we speak of periapical abscess or periodontal abscess.

The first comes from a pulpitis, i.e. infection of the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth) which then extends to the surrounding root, bone and gum.

The periodontal abscess arises instead in the periodontal pockets, invading the surrounding external tissue located under and around the tooth.

Causes

A dental abscess is due, in most cases, to an untreated caries or gum infection, but can also originate from trauma to the tooth.

Caries form erosions in the tooth enamel through which bacteria can penetrate until they reach the pulp, infecting it.

The presence of gingival pockets, in which the bacteria nest that over time proliferate forming a purulent exudate inside them, characterizes the periodontal abscess.

Symptoms

The most obvious symptom is intense toothache.

The pain, persistent and pulsating, is such as to disturb sleep and, often, is associated with swelling, which can then extend to the jaw and glands of the neck.

The affected tooth becomes extremely sensitive to percussion. Halitosis and a bitter taste sensation in the mouth may appear.

The appearance of fever and general malaise is also not uncommon.

Therapies

First of all, it is necessary to treat the current infection with appropriate antibiotics, which will be prescribed by the dentist or doctor.

Analgesics are used to soothe pain and rinses with lightly salted warm water may be useful.

If necessary, anti-inflammatory drugs, including corticosteroids, may be prescribed to reduce swelling and edema.

Once infection and inflammation have resolved, the dentist is required for complete healing of the dental abscess and prevention of complications.

In case of periapical abscess, root canal therapy will be performed to remove necrotic pulp tissue and dentin, both at the level of the crown and at the level of the tooth roots.

The inside of the tooth and root canals will then be sterilized and filled with special material.

If it is a periodontal abscess, surgery may be necessary.

Complications

If the dental abscess is not treated promptly and adequately, serious complications can arise.

In addition to the loss of the affected tooth, sepsis can occur and the infection can spread, spreading not only to the surrounding bone, but also to soft tissues or even other organs (e.g. heart, lungs, kidneys, etc.).

When to consult your doctor

A dental abscess should never be underestimated and it is necessary to act immediately in order to avoid complications that can also be very dangerous.

In case of symptoms that can be traced back to an abscess, it is advisable to immediately contact the attending physician or dentist who will identify, depending on the case, the most appropriate treatment.