An abscessed tooth is one of the main reasons why people visit an emergency dentist. It is a serious oral issue that usually comes with excruciating toothaches and repercussions for both your oral and overall health.
Being able to identify the warning signs of a tooth abscess can help you to avoid the discomfort and pain associated with the condition.
Figuring whether you need an emergency dentist for your abscessed tooth
An abscess is a bacterial infection that causes swelling, pain and produces pus. The infection often starts around the root of a tooth, close to the connective tissues, nerves and blood vessels. An abscess can also originate between the spaces between teeth and gums.
An infected tooth is often the result of tooth decay that has gone untreated for too long. The decay might leave the pulp chamber compromised, allowing bacteria to get into the blood vessels and nerve there. An abscess can also be the result of untreated periodontal disease.
If an infected tooth is left untreated, the infection can spread from the root of the tooth into bone tissues in the jaw. This can lead to the loss of the tooth or the infection spreading to other parts of the body. The symptoms and signs of an abscessed tooth include:
- Toothaches
- Swelling and redness in the gums
- Inflammation of the jaw
- Fever
- Sensitivity to hot or cold beverages and foods
- Bad breath
- Pus coming from around the affected tooth
How an emergency dentist treats an abscessed tooth
The treatments the dentist opts for typically varies based on the patient’s unique circumstances. Here are some of the more common ways to treat an abscessed tooth:
1. Drain the infection
One of the most effective ways to treat an abscessed tooth is to drain the infection. The dentist does this by making an incision into the abscess. The dentist will also clean the area and remove any dead tissue present.
2. Antibiotics
If draining the abscess is not an option, as is the case with severe infections that might neutralize the effects of a local anesthetic, the dentist might prescribe antibiotics to fight off the infection.
3. Root canal
This treatment involves drilling a hole into the infected tooth and using files to clean out the contents. The area is then disinfected before it is sealed back up. Teeth that have been repaired with root canals are often covered up with crowns for extra protection.
4. Extraction
If there is a serious threat of the infection spreading to other parts of the body, the dentist might recommend extracting the tooth. An extracted tooth will usually be replaced with an oral prosthetic, like an implant.
5. Hospitalization
If the infection has already begun spreading to other parts of the body, the patient might need to be hospitalized.
Get the emergency dental care you need
Call our Hutto clinic today if you find yourself dealing with an abscessed tooth. Relief is right around the corner.
Request an appointment here: https://www.adchutto.com or call Advanced Dental Care of Hutto at (512) 846-2011 for an appointment in our Hutto office.
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Call our Hutto office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.
