Is Tooth Abscess a Dental Emergency?
June 13, 2022 - Digital Resource BloggerYou’re unwinding from a long day at work or enjoying quality time with your family when you notice a searing discomfort in your teeth. If you’ve had previous dental issues, such as cavities, tooth decay, or gum infection, the discomfort could be due to a dental abscess. You can call an emergency dentist in Santa Clara if what you feel is no longer discomfort, but severe pain.
Tooth Abscess Basics
What Is a Tooth Abscess?
An abscessed tooth is a painful and dangerous dental emergency. It is an infection primarily caused by bacteria that produces pus and causes pain and swelling. It requires prompt medical intervention.
The infection arises in or around the blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that make up the root of a tooth. It can form between the tooth and gum. Whenever you have this at an early stage, it’s best that you have it treated by dental professionals.
The most prevalent causes of tooth abscess are the following:
- Untreated dental cavity
- Worn out enamel that allows germs to enter the tooth
- Advanced tooth decay or damage, which can result from a chipped or broken tooth that becomes infected
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, that goes untreated for a long time can lead to an abscess, especially in the severe stages of periodontitis. The infection from a tooth abscess can move from the root of the tooth to the jawbone that supports the teeth. As this condition progresses, it will result in tooth loss or allow the disease to spread throughout the body.
Tooth Abscess Signs and Symptoms
To prevent the infection from spreading, seek professional treatment for a tooth abscess as soon as possible. The following are some of the warning indicators that you’re dealing with a tooth abscess:
- A severe toothache
- Tooth pain that is dull, agonizing, throbbing, or acute in nature
- Fever
- Pain, whether you’re chewing or not
- Gum inflammation and redness
- Jaw edema is common in advanced infections
- Teeth sensitivity to temperature changes – both hot or cold
- A draining or open sore in the gums that may also leave an unpleasant aftertaste
- Breath problems
Tooth Abscess Is Considered a Dental Emergency
An abscessed tooth is a dental emergency. If you have a tooth abscess, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. Abscesses can lead to infection that spreads throughout the body, having serious and even life-threatening consequences if not treated.
The pain may subside if the abscess ruptures, but you will still have to undergo professional dental care. The infection may reach your jaw and other parts of your head and neck if the abscess does not drain. You could even have sepsis, a potentially fatal infection that spreads throughout your body. The earlier these concerns are addressed, the better!
Treatment Options When You Have Tooth Abscess
The therapy for a tooth abscess will be tailored according to your unique needs, however in most cases, a mix of the following treatments will be very helpful:
- Tooth Extraction
- Root Canal Treatment
- Antibiotic Therapy
- Drain the Abscess
When Should I See an Emergency Dentist in Santa Clara?
If you notice any of the signs and symptoms of a dental abscess, please contact us as soon as possible. We will do our best to schedule you for the same day. Don’t let the discomfort or infection get worse. Contact Dr. Jayne Dentistry, so you can get immediate assistance!