If you develop an abscessed tooth, then a small hole or pocket will have formed next to the tooth. This hole will be full of pus, and if it does not naturally drain away, then an abscess will appear. The most common causes of an abscessed tooth are gum disease and cavities.
Gum disease, or as it is medically termed, periodontal disease, occurs due to a build up of bacteria in the plaque around the gums and teeth. Gum disease is an infection of the bones and tissues that support the teeth. It can be very mild, in which case there will only be bleeding when the teeth and gums are brushed. If left untreated, it may develop into a serious condition resulting in tooth loss.
Cavities that can cause an abscess are holes that appear in the teeth. Cavities are usually caused by tooth decay. Plaque causes acid to eat away at the teeth and dissolve through the outer tooth wall. Serious cavities must be filled by a dentist in order to stop the decay and prevent any further destruction to the tooth.
Having a dry mouth may also contribute to an abscessed tooth. Dry mouths are a contributory factor to dental cavities, which may lead to an abscess. Chewing sugarless gum and drinking liquid regularly should solve the dry mouth problem. If not, a doctor should be able to prescribe medication to help with the problem.
There are a few symptoms of an abscessed tooth, including bad breath and a throbbing pain when chewing or eating food. The gums may look red and swollen, and a swelling in may appear in the face and/or jaw. Some people have fever-like symptoms, and a bump may appear on either side of the gum area.
If left untreated, the infection is likely to spread. Gum and bone deterioration may become so bad that the tooth may have to be removed. If the deterioration has reached this stage, the pain may have disappeared, but this does not mean that the infection has left the gum area.
Treatment for an abscess is determined based on how infected the tooth has become. Antibiotics can help the infection clear up. The tooth may need to be drilled to allow the infection to drain away. The gum area may also need to be drilled into in order for the infection to drain. If the infection is substantial, then root canal treatment may be required. In extreme cases, the tooth will be removed.
An abscessed tooth is easily prevented by regular brushing and flossing. Sticking to a healthy, low sugar diet and making frequent visits to the dentist are also helpful. An untreated tooth infection can spread to other body areas and eventually become extremely detrimental to your health.