What a Dental Abscess Is

Have you heard about the problems that can lead to abscesses? Have you ever wondered what an abscess is or what a dentist can do about it? If so, we are happy to help.

The enamel, dentin, and pulp are the three layers of your teeth. If a bacterial infection reaches the center layer of your teeth—the pulp—an abscess may form. The abscess itself is a pocket of pus that can appear at the root tip or near the gums. Usually, abscesses are caused by an untreated dental cavity or by inadequate dental care. If an abscess is not treated, serious complications could follow.

If you notice any of the following symptoms, we recommend visiting your dentist soon:

• Sensitivity to temperatures
• Sensitivity when you bite or chew
• A persistent toothache
• A persistent toothache
• Fever
• Swelling in your face
• Redness in the mouth and face
• A relief followed by a foul-smelling, foul-tasting fluid.

If you have an abscess, your dentist may recommend several treatments. For example, if the tooth is salvageable, your dentist could suggest root canal therapy. However if the tooth can’t be saved, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. In essence, the most important aspect of dealing with an abscess is removing the infection.  Fortunately, once the infection is removed, you should not experience any other ill effects.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us soon if you have any questions about an abscess, please feel free to contact us. We’re excited to hear from you.