A dental abscess is a bacterial infection that takes place at the root of the tooth or between the tooth and gum. A dental abscess usually results from tooth erosion and decay, which are results of poor oral hygiene and cavities. It often results in a pus build-up inside the gum and causes severe pains.
Types of Dental Abscess
Dental abscesses are classified into the following:
1. Periapical Abscess
This is the abscess that affects the soft pulp of the teeth. The bacteria enter into the teeth through tiny holes created by decay or caries. There is usually the breakdown of the softer layer of tissue under the enamel. As the decay continues, the hole will reach the soft inner pulp and cause an infection. This situation is called pulpitis.
2. Periodontal Abscess
This type of abscess is caused by bacteria starting from the supporting bones of the tooth. It results in the inflammation of the gums and creates a separation between the base of the tooth and the tissue around the root of the tooth. After the separation, a periodontal pocket, which is a tiny gap, will be formed.
3. Gingival Abscess
It is only the gum tissue that gets affected during the bacterial invasion of the teeth. The abscess does not spread to the tooth or the periodontal area.
Causes of a Dental Abscess
Bacteria mainly cause a dental abscess. The bacterial infection develops over time in the tooth’s soft pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The following are the causes of dental abscess.
1. Excess Sugar Consumption
Eating and drinking food with high sugar content can cause cavities, which will result in a dental abscess.
2. Poor Dental Hygiene
Another major cause of a dental abscess is poor dental care. Failing to brush, floss, and go to a dental clinic for professional dental care is another cause of a dental abscess.
Common Signs of Dental Abscess
Regular visits to a dental clinic will help to prevent a dental abscess. However, the following are the signs or symptoms of dental abscess.
1. Fever
2. Bad taste in the mouth
3. Tooth sensitivity
4. Pain in the affected gum or tooth
5. Pains when opening the mouth
6. Difficulty Swallowing
7. Insomnia
Treatment of Dental Abscesses
As soon as your dental issues have aggravated to a dental abscess, it would require getting professional help from a dental clinic. It is essential to boost dental health as soon as possible to prevent bacteria from spreading to other parts of the body to cause cysts, sinus tracts, and sepsis.
With early detection, the pus will be drained, and the right medication will be prescribed. You unavoidably have to visit a dental clinic to prevent more severe conditions resulting from the dental abscess.
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