Have you been experiencing a throbbing pain in your mouth that seems to be getting worse?
Your gums might be swollen and tender, and you may even have difficulty swallowing. If so, you might have an abscessed tooth.
An abscessed tooth is a serious condition that requires prompt attention from our dentists.
An abscess is a localized collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection.
In the case of an abscessed tooth, the infection starts in the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth.
This can happen due to a cavity, a cracked tooth, or gum disease. As the infection spreads, it can cause the pulp to die and release toxins into the surrounding tissues.
This can lead to the formation of an abscess.
Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth
The most common symptom of an abscessed tooth is a severe, throbbing pain in the affected tooth. The pain may be constant or come and go, and it may radiate to your jaw, ear, or neck.
You may also experience the following symptoms:
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Swelling in your gums and face
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Redness and tenderness in the gums
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Loose tooth
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Sensitivity to hot and cold
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Bad breath
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Difficulty swallowing
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Fever
Diagnosis and Treatment of an Abscessed Tooth
If you suspect you have an abscessed tooth, it is important to see a dentist right away. The dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to confirm the diagnosis. They will also need to determine the severity of the infection.
Treatment for an abscessed tooth typically involves drainage of the abscess and removal of the infected pulp. This may be done through a root canal or tooth extraction. In some cases, antibiotics may also be prescribed to clear up the infection.
Prevention of Abscessed Teeth
The best way to prevent an abscessed tooth is to practice good oral care. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
If you have any questions about abscessed teeth or oral care, please don't hesitate to ask our dentists.
Home Care for an Abscessed Tooth
While you wait to see our dentists, there are a few things you can do at home to relieve the pain and discomfort of an abscessed tooth:
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Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day.
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Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
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Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
It is important to note that these are only temporary measures and should not be used in place of professional dental care.
Have you been experiencing a throbbing pain in your mouth that seems to be getting worse? 