Dental Abscess Port Macquarie
Don’t Delay. Call Us Right Away For Treatment
A dental abscess is a pus build-up in the teeth or gums.
The abscess usually comes from bacterial infection, most often in the soft pulp of the tooth. Bacteria in plaque sticks to the teeth and damages them and the gums.
If the plaque is not removed by a regular and proper hygiene routine, the bacteria may spread inside the soft tissues of the tooth or gums, eventually resulting in an abscess.
Types of Dental Abscess
- Gingival abscess – Found in the gum tissue and does not affect the tooth or the periodontal ligaments.
- Periodontal abscess – Found in the supporting bone tissue structure of the teeth.
- Periapical abscess – Found in the soft pulp of the tooth.
The type of abscess can determine the severity and location of symptoms.
Causes of Dental Abscess
A periapical dental abscess happens when the dental pulp, the deepest part of the tooth that has blood vessels, sensitive nerves, and connective tissues, is infected by bacteria.
Bacteria can seep in, through either a dental cavity or an opening in the tooth and spread down to vulnerable areas. The infection can cause swelling and inflammation to the tip of the root.
Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
Symptoms of a dental abscess include:
- Severe, persistent, throbbing toothache that can spread to the jawbone, neck or ear
- Sensitivity to extreme temperatures
- Sensitivity to chewing or biting pressure
- Fever
- Swelling in the face or cheek
- Tender, swollen lymph nodes underneath the jaw or in the neck
- Sudden rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
When to see a dentist
If you experience fever and swelling in the face, see your Port Macquarie dentist right away.
These symptoms may indicate that the infection has spread deeper into the jaw and surrounding tissues, or even to the other areas of the body.
Treatment for Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is treated by discovering the source of the infection and draining away the pus.
The possible treatments include:
- Root canal treatment
- Tooth extraction
- Incision and drainage
At-Home Care
There are home remedies to relieve the pain:
- Avoid hot and cold foods and drinks.
- Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth without an abscess will be less painful.
- Do not floss around the affected area.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Dental Abscess in Port Macquarie
If you have a dental abscess or suspect to have one, contact your Port Macquarie dentist immediately so we can treat the problem right away and prevent further damage or infection.
Dental Abscess in Port Macquarie
Call us on (02) 6105 9853 or book your appointment online.
We are located at 38 Buller St in Port Macquarie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental abscesses dangerous?
If properly treated, dental abscesses usually do not cause any serious or long-term problems.
However, if it is ignored, a severe dental abscess can cause complications, possibly even severe ones.
Are dental abscesses contagious?
Do dental abscesses go away on their own?
If ignored, they can spread out to your jaw or other parts of your head or neck.