A tooth abscess is the result of a bacterial infection. When trauma or decay damages a tooth, it leaves an opening in which bacteria can enter. If the tooth becomes infected, a pus-filled sac develops that is actually a collection of the bacteria, white blood cells and dead tissue. An abscess causes a lot of pain and needs to be addressed by a dentist. If the infection is not treated promptly, it can spread throughout the tooth, into its root and possibly into the supporting bones.
Symptoms
Pain may present itself as mild at first, and may only be felt when chewing. Your tooth may also be sensitive to cold and hot beverages, or certain foods. Other possible symptoms include fever, swollen neck glands or swollen jaw. You may also have bad breath and a bitter taste in your mouth from the abscess.
Dental Exam
A dentist needs to be consulted as soon as you suspect an abscess. The dentist will perform an exam that often begins with tapping on the problem tooth with an instrument. She will likely have you bite down and will gauge the resulting pain. The dentist will check for inflamed gums. Finally, X-rays may be taken.
Drug Treatment
Sometimes your dentist will prescribe a course of antibiotics to treat an abscessed tooth. This generally occurs when the tooth has died and has been sealed by the dentist. Antibiotics will usually clear the infection and represent the first stage of treatment, which is often followed by a root canal or extraction.
Root Canal
A root canal may be necessary to drain the tooth of infection. It is also used to eliminate a diseased root. The procedure includes drilling into the root of the tooth to remove the infection. Once the dentist or endodontist has cleaned out the infection, he will seal the tooth and put a crown on it.
Extraction
Another dental procedure that is sometimes performed in the event of an abscess is an extraction. The tooth is completely removed by the dentist, who tends and cleans the area, and instructs you on how to care for the wound until it heals. Often, you can have an artificial tooth inserted to avoid problems associated with your bite following an extraction.
Complications
An abscess left untreated can lead to serious health issues. These include spreading of infection to facial tissue, the jaw bone and other areas of the body. You could possibly develop sepsis (blood stream infection), pneumonia, endocarditis (heart inflammation) or even a brain abscess.
