An abscessed tooth is a both painful and dangerous dental infection. Abscesses are caused when a bacterial infection is able to spread and form pus within a tooth’s root or in the gums. Common issues which may lead to an abscessed tooth include an improper dental procedure, untreated cavities and practicing overall poor dental hygiene.  

How Do I Know If I Have An Abscess?

There is a long list of symptoms which may point towards an abscessed tooth. Some main symptoms of an abscessed tooth include: long lasting intense, deep tooth pain, sensitivity to pressure and temperature, and facial swelling. One additional symptom which is often a clear indication of an abscessed tooth is sudden pain relief followed by a saline and rotten taste in one’s mouth- this means the abscess has burst. If you have experienced any of these symptoms we urge you to schedule an appointment with your dental provider immediately.  

How Can An Abscess Be Treated?

In the event that you are diagnosed with an abscessed tooth there are multiple treatment paths to follow based on the severity of the abscess and how long it has gone untreated. Cases of a more contained abscess are often treated by your dentist providing antibiotics or making a small incision to drain the infected region of pus. In contrast, abscess which go untreated for long periods may require the tooth to be pulled or even a root canal.  

Abscessed Tooth Prevention

As is the case with most dental issues, the best preventative measure is to take your oral hygiene seriously! Brush and floss twice daily and stay up to date on dental visits. Beyond this, reducing or eliminating sugar from your diet is highly recommended. There is a direct correlation between high sugar intake and the occurrence of cavities which, as stated earlier, is a common cause of abscessed teeth.     

How Whiting Dental Arts Can Help

Beyond your personal care, regular check ups from your dentist are paramount in early detection of an abscess or any other dental problem. Whiting Dental Arts is the North Shore’s premier family dentist and we are currently accepting new patients! Whether it’s an abscess or a routine check up our team is prepared to assist- contact us today with any questions or to schedule an appointment.