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Evol Health
DENTAL INFECTION
What Is an Abscessed Tooth?
A tooth abscess, sometimes called an abscessed tooth infection, is a localized pocket of pus that has formed somewhere in or around a tooth. It occurs when bacteria find a way to enter the tooth, either through a cavity, a chip or crack in the tooth, or because of improper dental work. The bacteria spread to the soft interior or “pulp” of the tooth, and travel from there to its root, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness in the tooth, gum, or jaw. An abscess can form in or around any tooth, though wisdom teeth are particularly prone to infection because they are harder to clean and are more susceptible to decay. A wisdom tooth abscess can make it especially difficult to chew or swallow without pain.
Diagnosing an Abscessed Tooth
If you believe you are suffering from a tooth abscess, it’s important to seek treatment right away, either at your dentist’s office or at the nearest emergency medical center. When diagnosing your condition, your dentist will examine your mouth, including teeth, lips, gums, and tongue. They may tap lightly on your teeth to identify where you are most tender since abscessed teeth are sensitive to touch. They may also order an x-ray or CT-scan if they suspect that your infection has spread to other areas of your face, head, or neck and need to determine a broader course of treatment.
If your dentist can’t diagnose your tooth abscess, they might send you to an endodontist, a skilled specialist who focuses on treating tooth pain. Your endodontist will be able to give you a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to relieve your symptoms and treat your condition.
What Causes an Abscessed Tooth?
Teeth abscesses are caused when bacterial microorganisms enter and spread through a tooth’s crown, to its soft pulp interior, and finally to the tip of its roots, the patient’s gums, and jaw. The body’s immune system sends white blood cells to fight off the bacterial infection, which in turn induce swelling in the affected area and kills the surrounding tissue. Pus, a mixture of white blood cells, bacteria, tissue, and fluid fills the newly-formed pocket and the site of the infection becomes acutely painful, swollen, and tender.
The factors that lead to tooth decay also make teeth more susceptible to infection and abscess. They include:
Poor Dental Hygiene
Inadequate care of your teeth can lead you to develop cavities or gum disease that in turn allow bacteria to enter your teeth and gums more easily.
An Injury or Incomplete Dental Care
Any event that chips, cracks, or creates an opening in a tooth can lead you to develop a bacterial infection.
What Are The Signs Of a Tooth Infection?
Symptoms of a tooth infection may include throbbing pain, tooth sensitivity, shiny, red or swollen gums, fever, and facial swelling. In the case of a tooth abscess, symptoms may also include discolored or loose teeth, bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
What Causes a Tooth Infection?
Tooth infections are caused when bacteria enters the crown of the tooth, through the soft pulp interior, and through to the tip of its roots.
What Antibiotics Work For Tooth Infection Treatment?
Amoxicillin, clindamycin, cephalexin, penicillin, and azithromycin can all treat a tooth infection. With EVOL Health, you can chat with a provider and get a prescription for the medication that is best suited for your infection.