Understanding Tooth Abscesses
A tooth abscess is primarily characterized by pain in and around the affected area. Common symptoms of a tooth or gum abscess include:
Redness or swelling in the gums
Swelling in the face or jaw
Intense and persistent pain
Sensitivity to pressure or temperature that lasts for an extended period
If left untreated, an abscess can worsen, leading to more severe symptoms. Watch for signs such as fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, the abscess may burst, allowing bacteria to enter your bloodstream. If you experience any symptoms of a tooth or gum abscess, it’s essential to contact Buda Dental Specialty Group immediately for prompt treatment.
What Causes an Abscess?
Patients can experience two main types of abscesses: gum abscesses and tooth abscesses.
Gum abscesses are typically caused by a bacterial infection in the gum tissue, often linked to severe gum disease.
Tooth abscesses arise from infections in the dental pulp or nerve inside the tooth. As bacteria multiply in the pulp chamber or root canals, the infection can spread to the tooth root and surrounding tissues.
How is an Abscess Treated?
Our expert team will determine the appropriate treatment for your abscess based on its type and severity. For gum abscesses, treatment may involve making an incision, draining the abscess, and administering antibiotics to address the underlying infection.
For tooth abscesses, we may recommend root canal treatment to remove the infected pulp and nerve, clean the tooth’s interior, and seal it. In more severe cases, a tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading to nearby healthy teeth and gums.