Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a serious form of dental emergency, and unfortunately, not many people know it.
A dental abscess is an accumulation of pus caused by an infection when bacteria invade our mouth.
The tooth’s pulp is damaged resulting to the abscess. Pulp is the soft inner part of the tooth composed of blood vessels, nerves and connective tissues.
The infection does not only affect the teeth and the gums. It can spread from the tooth’s root to the jaw. If left unattended, the infection may even spread to the rest of your body via the bloodstream.
Fortunately, your team at Mayfield Dental Care can help. We provide urgent care and attention particularly in a dental emergency such as a dental abscess. If you have a dental abscess, do not hesitate to call or visit us immediately.
A same-day emergency appointment is available at Mayfield Dental Care.
What Causes A Dental Abscess
As said, a dental abscess is caused by an infection in the mouth. The infection likewise is caused with the following reasons:
- Severe tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Food stuck in your teeth
- Root canal complications
- Poor dental works
Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth or Gums
Aside from the visible pus in the mouth, a dental abscess is also associated by the following symptoms:
- Foul breath
- Tooth sensitivity
- Bitter taste in the tongue
- Redness and soreness of the gums
- Redness and soreness of the cheeks
- Pain in eating
- General feeling of illness
- Enlarged neck glands
- Swelling of the jaw
First Aid for Dental Abscess
A dental abscess develops one or two days after an infection. Once it develops, neither time nor first aid can make it go away. It will continue to worsen as another day pass.
To treat a dental abscess, you have to visit your dentist. But before your visit, do the following first aid steps to help you manage.
- Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash or salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt to eight ounces of lukewarm water).
- You can also use a peppermint tea as gargle.
- Take OTC pain relievers but always be mindful of the restrictions.
- Never put an aspirin directly to the gums. This can cause a chemical burn.
- See your dentist immediately.
Treatment for a Dental Abscess
The first step of the treatment is to determine the cause of the infection. After draining the pus, treating the cause is next to ensure that the dental abscess will not develop again.
Treatment may include:
- Antibiotic therapy
- Root canal therapy
- Tooth extraction
- Periodontal surgery
Same Day Dental Emergency Appointment At Mayfield Dental Care
If you ever find yourself in a dental emergency, contact Mayfield Dental Care team immediately for quick assistance. Our team is well experienced in providing quick and efficient care for immediate relief.
Same day dental emergency appointment for you and your loved ones in Mayfield!