A dental abscess occurs when there is a bacterial infection in or around a tooth. There are different types of abscesses, and there are different symptoms associated with them. The best way to avoid an abscess is to properly care for your teeth by brushing your teeth, flossing daily, and seeing the dentist twice per year. Here at Whiting Dental Arts in Swampscott Massachusetts, we provide dental cleanings, exams, and restorative care that can help patients protect their teeth and gums and handle issues if and when they arise. If you need to make an appointment, please give us a call. Otherwise continue reading to learn about the types of abscesses, symptoms of an abscess, and the causes of an abscess.
What Are The Types Of Dental Abscesses?
There are two main categories of abscesses; periapical and periodontal. These categories are based on where the abscess forms. Periapical is an abscess that occurs at the tip of a tooth’s root. A periodontal abscess occurs in the gums on the side of a tooth’s root. Periapical abscesses can happen when a cavity is left untreated making it easier for bacteria to enter the tooth.
What Causes Dental Abscesses?
Abscesses are caused by bacteria. Like any infection, bacteria can infect and spread through tissue causing a variety of problems. Abscesses specifically happen when bacteria interact with the pulp of a tooth. A tooth has layers, the outermost layer is the enamel. Inside the enamel is the dentin, and inside the dentin is the tooth pulp. The tooth pulp is pinkish in color and has soft tissue as well as nerves. When bacteria get into the tooth pulp it causes an infection. This can happen for a variety of reasons. Poor dental care can lead to bacteria growth in the mouth that spreads deeper and deeper into the teeth and gums. Additionally, damage to the teeth caused by sports injuries for example can also make it easier for bacteria to enter the tooth.
How Do You Know If You Have An Abscessed Tooth?
Abscess are dental infections. Their symptoms can be divided into two categories, oral symptoms and overall symptoms. Orally, there will likely be severe throbbing pain near your jaw, neck, or ear close to where the abscess has occurred. Additionally, there will be pain and discomfort when you bite down or chew, as well as when you eat hot or cold food. In terms of the overall symptoms, because an abscess is a bacterial infection, you may experience swollen lymph nodes, fever, and other symptoms related to bacterial infections.
Schedule A Dental Appointment in Swampscott MA
The best way to prevent an abscess is to see a dentist routinely. If you live in or around Swampscott Massachusetts, we can help. Give us a call to set up a dental appointment in Swampscott.