Tooth abscess
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection Abscess can develop in different parts of the tooth due to different reasons A periapical abscess develops at the tip of the root, while a periodontal abscess develops in the gums around the root of the tooth. The information below will be specifically about periapical abscess
Periapical tooth abscess usually develops as a result of untreated caries, trauma or dental intervention.
During the treatment of the abscess, the dentist will drain it and remove the infection. In some cases, the tooth can be saved, but sometimes it needs to be removed Leaving a tooth abscess untreated can lead to serious, life-threatening complications
A periapical abscess develops when bacteria invades the pulp of a tooth The pulp is the deepest part of the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue
Bacteria enter through cavities or cracks in the tooth and spread to the root of the tooth. Bacterial infection causes inflammation and swelling of the root tip
Signs and symptoms of a tooth abscess include:
- Severe, long-lasting, throbbing toothache
- Increased sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures
- Pain when chewing and biting
- Increased temperature
- Swelling of the face or cheeks
If you have a temperature and facial swelling and cannot get to the dentist, go to the emergency room Also go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing or swallowing These symptoms may indicate that the infection has spread to the surrounding tissues
