WHAT IS ABSCESSED TOOTH? 

It is a painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and tooth most commonly caused by severe tooth decay, trauma - breakage or chipping, and gingivitis or gum disease.

These problems can cause openings in the tooth enamel, which allows bacteria to infect the center of the tooth (called the pulp) which may infect bones supporting the tooth.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ABSCESSED TOOTH?

A severe and continuous toothache resulting in throbbing or sharp pain is a common symptom of an abscessed tooth. Other symptoms include:

• fever

• pain when chewing

• sensitivity to heat or cold

• bitter taste in the mouth

• foul smelling breath

• swelling in neck glands

• general discomfort, unease, or feeling unwell

• red and swollen gums

• swelling in upper or lower jaw

• an open or draining gum sore 

If the infected pulp in the root of the tooth dies, the toothache may stop. This does not means the infection has healed. It may continue to spread and destroy tissue. It is important to see a dentist even if the pain subsides.

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT 

Diagnosis : Diagnosis is arrived by a Dental examination by a dentist, followed by review of probing questions on the intensity, location and duration of the pain. Furthermore an X-rays might too be required to detect  bone erosion around the abscess.

Treatment : Aim of the treatment is to eliminate the infection, preserving the tooth, and prevent complications. The abscess may need to be drained to eliminate the infection through root canal therapy. Root surgery might also be recommended if required to remove any diseased root tissue. A crown might be placed over the tooth or the tooth may also be extracted, allowing drainage through the socket. Another way to drain the abscess would be by incision into the swollen gum tissue.

Antibiotics and over the counter pain relieving medications are prescribed along with warm salt-water mouth rinses.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Following good oral hygiene practices reduce the risk of developing a tooth abscess. As well, if your teeth experience trauma (for example, become loosened or chipped), seek immediate dental attention.