Did you ever have a toothache?
If the answer to these questions is yes, then you might suffer from an abscessed tooth which is a potentially deadly condition for your tooth and your whole body.
Everybody can suffer from an abscess at some point in life, even chronic dental patients. The signs are clear; you must address them immediately because they can harm your health.
Here we’ll discuss what is an abscess tooth and how to prevent them. Read on.
What Is an Abscess Tooth?
An abscessed tooth is a severe dental condition that occurs when a tooth’s pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) becomes infected. The infection is usually caused by bacteria that enter the tooth through a crack or cavity.
Once the bacteria reach the pulp, they multiply, causing the tissue to become inflamed. This can lead to a tooth abscess, a pus-filled pocket that forms around the tooth.
Abscessed teeth can be extremely painful, and the pain can radiate to the jaw, ear, and neck. If left untreated, an abscessed tooth can cause the jawbone to erode, and the infection can spread to other body parts.
What Causes an Abscessed Tooth?
The leading cause of an abscessed tooth is bacteria. Bacteria can enter the tooth through a cavity or a crack in the tooth. Once the bacteria enter the tooth, they can start to multiply and cause an infection.
The infection can cause the tissue around the tooth to become swollen and can lead to an abscess.
Signs and Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a severe dental infection. The infection can occur at the root of the tooth or in the gum. The signs and symptoms of a tooth abscess include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold, swelling of the gums, and fever.
Treatment Options for an Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a tooth that has become infected and is one of the more serious dental emergencies that need immediate action. Treatment options for an abscessed tooth include:
Root Canal Treatment
This involves removing the damaged pulp and cleaning the inside of the tooth. The tooth is then sealed, and a crown is placed over it.
Extraction
This is the removal of the tooth.
Incision and Tooth Abscess Drainage
This is when a small incision is made in the gum to allow the pus to drain out.
Antibiotics
These are usually prescribed if the infection is severe.
Your dentist will recommend the best treatment option for you based on the severity of your condition.
How to Prevent an Abscessed Tooth
Several ways to prevent an abscessed tooth include good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding smoking. Practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, and seeing a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings is essential.
If you think you may have an infection, it is vital to see a dentist immediately so the infection can be treated before it becomes severe.
Know the Tooth and Keep it Healthy and Strong
What is an abscess tooth but something that you need to take very seriously? If you think you have an abscessed tooth, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
An abscessed tooth is a severe dental problem that can cause pain, swelling, and other serious issues. If you have an abscessed tooth, the dentist will likely recommend a root canal to treat the infection and save the tooth.
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