Anyone can get a tooth abscess, especially if proper dental hygiene is overlooked or neglected. An abscess is a pocket of pus that develops around the tooth, and it can happen to anyone at any age. But how does it truly form?
Abscess Formation
A person’s tooth is solid on the outside but has pulp on the inside. This pulp has several connective tissues, nerves, and blood vessels which can get infected if exposed to tooth decay. Gum disease can also cause tooth abscesses to develop, and cracked teeth are especially vulnerable.
Primary symptoms of a tooth abscess
Most people who have tooth abscess suffer from severe and persistent toothache. It tends to spread across their jawbone, up to their neck and sometimes even their ears. They’re also sensitive to sudden temperature changes as well as the pressure from biting or chewing. Others also suffer from fever and swelling from their cheek, face or lymph nodes. They may also experience a foul-tasting or salty fluid in their mouth.
WebMD says that there are also times when an abscess causes a pimple-like lump to appear on your gums. It contains pus that oozes out when pressed.
How to check for an abscessed tooth
Although swelling and pain are common symptoms of an abscessed tooth, there are times when you won’t experience any of these signs at all. If that’s the case, then it only means that the pus pocket has a different passage through which to drain.
If you don’t notice any of the symptoms, then it’s best to go to a dentist to have it checked. Your dentist will ask you to undergo a series of X-rays to get a thorough check of your abscess tooth. He’ll also tap your tooth to see if you feel any pain. If he still can’t locate the abscess, he’ll recommend you to an endodontist for further treatment.
If the endodontist discovers that you have an abscessed tooth, then he can recommend that you try antibiotics or tooth extractions. He can also recommend a root canal treatment from an Upland-based dentist to treat your tooth problem. Undergoing such a procedure can help restore your tooth to its original appearance.
Potential risk factors
There are several reasons why a person can develop an abscessed tooth. Aside from poor dental hygiene, Mayo Clinic says that people who frequently eat and drink foods that are high in sugar are also prone to a tooth abscess. Even worse, it can also lead to other conditions such as cavity buildup, which can be detrimental to a person’s health.
People who have dry mouth can also suffer from tooth decay. It’s a common side effect that comes with aging as well as certain medications. Practicing good oral hygiene can help protect your teeth from an abscess. Never forget to get your regular dental checkups, especially when you have a cracked or damaged tooth. Also, try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. Doing so will help prevent cavities from forming, which can cause you to become prone to an abscess.