Understanding Tooth Abscesses and Dental Care
A tooth abscess is a painful infection located at a tooth’s root or between your tooth and gum. Severe tooth decay is the most common cause, but it may also be associated with trauma to the tooth or gum disease. Openings in tooth enamel can allow harmful bacteria to reach the pulp in the center of the tooth. In severe cases, the infection may spread to the tissues and bones that support the affected tooth.
Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth
The following symptoms may indicate a tooth abscess:
- Tooth pain that may be gnawing, sharp, shooting, or throbbing in character
- Pain when chewing
- Bitter taste
- Fever
- Foul-smelling breath
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- General malaise
- Swollen lymph glands in the neck
- Red, swollen gums or gum tenderness
- Swelling in upper or lower jaw
- An open sore on the gums
- Drainage from a gum sore
Diagnosis and Treatment of an Abscessed Tooth
Your dentist can diagnose an abscessed tooth during an exam. Visible symptoms such as swelling, redness, and erosion around the bone along with evidence found on X-rays can confirm the presence of infection. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection, save the tooth, and prevent serious complications. The following treatments may be employed:
- Drainage of the abscess, which may be accomplished through root canal therapy or by making an incision into the gum tissue
- Root surgery to remove diseased tissue after the infection has healed
- Tooth extraction
- Antibiotic treatment
- Pain relief through laser therapy
- Salt water rinses
- Over-the-counter pain medications
Can an Abscess Be Prevented?
While there is no way to guarantee that you won’t develop an abscess, getting regular professional dental care and following good oral hygiene practices can reduce your risk. If you experience toothache, facial swelling, or any other dental symptoms, see your affordable dentist in Virginia as soon as possible.
Search for “Affordable Dentist in Virginia Affordable Dental Care”
If you suspect that you have an abscessed tooth, don’t ignore it. Complications from untreated abscesses can be serious. Search results for “affordable dentist in Virginia affordable dental” will help you locate the best dental care resources near you.
To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Virginia, call Dental One Associates of Virginia today at or make an appointment.
Dental One Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Virginia. With 5 affiliated practices throughout Virginia, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Dental One Associates of Virginia, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Dental One Associates of Virginia.
