An abscessed tooth is not uncommon. It occurs when pus builds up in a tooth, allowing bacteria to grow. This can lead to an infection. There are many reasons this can happen, and it can impact various areas of the tooth. An abscess at the tip of the root is called a periapical abscess, whereas those that occur near the gums are called periodontal abscesses. All of them need treatment. If you need help with an abscessed tooth, our team at Lovett Dental Corpus Christi can help you quickly.
What Causes an Abscessed Tooth?
Most of the time, they happen as a result of a dental cavity. The bacteria on your tooth will eat into the soft tissues and the tooth itself. Over time, it burrows down into the center of the tooth until it reaches the tooth’s root. By this time, the pain is very significant. If the cavity does not receive the treatment it needs, it can lead to a pocket of pus forming. This type of abscess is the most common, but other types of dental injury and some types of dental work can also cause it.
Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth
There are numerous signs that an abscessed tooth may be present. If you any tooth pain, get it checked out right away. The sooner you do, the less intense the pain will become, and the easier treatment is. The following are key signs to look for in this particular condition:
- Severe pain, often a throbbing pain
- The pain tends to radiate into the jawbone, ear, and neck
- Fevers
- Hot and cold temperature sensitivity
- Swelling around the jawline, face, or check
- Trouble swallowing or breathing – requires emergency treatment
- Foul tastes or smells from your mouth
- Swollen lymph nodes
If you have these symptoms, it is best to call and schedule a consultation for an abscessed tooth. Our team will work hard to get you in for care right away to minimize the risks of additional concerns. We can often help you to get care for your infection right away with medications and other treatments.
You should see a doctor right away for any difficulty with breathing or swallowing. If you have a significant amount of swelling, visit your local emergency room for emergency dental services.
You Can Prevent Abscessed Teeth
What’s most important is keeping your dental health at the best it can be. To do this, you need to work, actively, at maintaining your oral health. Tooth decay is one of the most common reasons for a tooth abscess to occur, which means you can prevent this from happening with routine visits to our office.
- General dentistry visits
- Professional teeth cleaning
- Dental fluoride treatments
- Dental sealant use
- Root canal treatment
We also recommend that you brush your teeth at least two times a day using fluoride toothpaste to help minimize the amount of bacteria present. You should also use dental floss during the day. Your diet can help, too. Eat a diet that limits sugary foods and reduce snacks between meals. Try to time brushing your teeth right after your meals.
Routine dental care is an important step in ensuring oral health and minimizing the onset of this condition. Come in to see our team at least one time every six months.
Call Lovett Dental Corpus Christi Today
If you have an abscessed tooth, our team at Lovett Dental Corpus Christi can provide help. This is the type of condition that warrants coming in for emergency dental care. Even if you schedule a routine appointment with us for an abscessed tooth, we’re happy to help you. Call 361-986-1117 now for help.
