1. Emergency First Aid for Symptoms
A tooth abscess is a pus-filled area where bacteria has entered the tooth pulp though a crack or cavity in the enamel and caused an infection. It is a sign that your tooth and jawbone are being destroyed, and it requires prompt treatment. It also hurts! Your first hints of an abscess may be localized swelling in the gums and a throbbing toothache.
Treat the area topically with moist heat, such as a hot-water bottle or microwaveable pad. Cut the pain and swelling with ibuprofen or aspirin while you make an emergency appointment with your dentist.
2. Root Canal Therapy
Your dentist may drain the abscess to relieve your immediate pain and discomfort, but this won't remove the source of the problem. After diagnosing the extent of the infection causing the abscess, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist to cut away the infected tooth tissue. This is called a root canal, which allows the dead pulp to be removed while preserving as much of the original tooth as possible. It also keeps the bacterial infection from spreading to other parts of your mouth and your body. Your oral surgeon will also prescribe a course of antibiotics.
A root canal involves removing the decayed tissue, flushing the resultant cavity and the root canals, filling that area with dental sealant and restoring the tooth crown. A porcelain or gold crown helps to protect the treated tooth and restore its function.
3. Tooth Extraction and Restoration
If extreme tooth decay has resulted from the infection and abscess, the oral surgeon may need to remove the tooth completely to protect your other teeth. If root and nerve tissue are damaged and the gums have weakened enough to loosen the tooth, the surgeon may be able to use forceps and a local anesthetic to extract the tooth. If it is still solidly in place, however, the surgeon may have to take it out in pieces, or remove portions of the jawbone along with it.
The result will be worth it. When your dentition is restored using a tooth implant or bridge, your health will no longer be jeopardized by the possible spread of an infection.
