Can a Tooth Abscess Heal?
A dental abscess occurs when there is a build-up of pus in the gums and teeth caused by infection. An abscess requires attention from a dentist and is considered an urgent issue. Unfortunately, dental abscesses will not go away on their own without proper treatment.
Common signs of a dental abscess include the following:
- Toothache or severe discomfort in the gums
- Redness inside the mouth or externally on the face
- Hot and cold sensitivity
- Bad taste in the mouth or foul breath
- Challenges with opening the mouth or chewing food
- Jaw or face which is swollen
- High fever
Patients who think they may have a dental abscess should follow up with their dentist immediately. A dental abscess is a serious issue and requires treatment in a timely manner. Patients without a regular dentist can contact local dentists and explain that they have an unexpected issue which requires attention. Many dentists set aside time in their schedules specifically to accommodate patients who are in need of urgent treatment.
In cases of a dental emergency or when a patient discovers they have abscess outside of regular business hours, it is still good to call the dental office. Most dentists have an answering service or a way to reach the dentist for an emergency.
If a patient experiences any of the symptoms listed below, they should call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency room for immediate treatment:
- Breathing difficulty
- Vision issues of swelling and discomfort of the eyes
- Mouth swelling
A dental abscess can cause a serious amount of discomfort. While patients are waiting to see their dentist, the following can help manage pain:
1. Take an over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
2. Avoid hard or crunchy foods and consume soft foods such as yogurt, eggs, soup, or mashed potatoes
3. Do not consume things which are high in sugar
4. Avoid hot or cold food and drinks
5. Continue brushing the teeth but use a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle pressure
Treatment
A dentist is needed to properly treat a dental abscess. Treatment will often include draining of the pus. When there is an underlying issue causing the abscess, additional treatment may be required. Additional treatment could involve extraction of the tooth or a root canal. In order to minimize any pain during treatment, the dentist will use a local anesthetic. In some cases, the dentist will write a prescription for an antibiotic or painkiller to be used after treatment.
A dental abscess occurs when there is a build-up of pus below the teeth or gums. This is typically caused by an infection. The following can put patients at an increased risk for experiencing a dental abscess:
- Teeth which are impacted
- Gum disease or tooth decay
- Injury or trauma
- Chemotherapy or a weakened immune system
Dental abscesses can often be prevented through good oral hygiene practices. It is important for patients to brush their teeth at least twice each day and floss every day. Toothbrushes should be replaced every few months or when they start to show signs or wear. Patients should not use tobacco products and eat a nutritious diet. Routine dental visits are also critical in maintaining good oral health. These visits can also ensure issues are identified quickly and treated in a timely manner.