Periodontal Abscess
A periodontal abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the gums. It is caused by bacteria that infect the gums and cause them to become inflamed. The abscess can be very painful and can make it difficult to eat or talk. If left untreated, the abscess can spread to other parts of the mouth or body. Gum abscesses are usually treated with antibiotics and pain relievers.
Causes
An abscessed tooth is a serious dental condition that should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible. If you have an abscessed tooth, you may experience a number of symptoms, including pain, sensitivity, swelling, and redness. There are a few different causes of an abscessed tooth, but the most common is a bacterial infection. This can occur when there is a break in the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter and infect the pulp. The infection can then spread to the surrounding tissue, causing an abscess. Other causes of an abscessed tooth include trauma to the tooth, gum disease, and a cracked tooth.
Symptoms
The periodontal abscess is often the result of a bacterial infection. Symptoms may include:
Sensitivity to hot or cold drinks/food etc.
Painful, swollen gums
Red, inflamed gums
A bad taste in the mouth
Difficulty in chewing
Recurrent discharge of pus
Sometimes, even a feverish feeling
Diagnosis
If you think you may have a periodontal abscess, it's important to see a dentist right away. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the mouth and body. Periodontal abscesses are relatively rare. They usually occur in people who have periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease. If you are experiencing this problem, it is important to see a dentist right away, who may order a dental X-ray to give the right diagnosis for your condition.
Treatment
Treatment for a periodontal abscess includes draining the abscess and taking care of the infection. This is usually performed using a needle or sometimes through surgeries. You may also need antibiotics to clear the infection. This type of abscess is a serious infection that can cause damage to your teeth and gums if left untreated. Treatment may involve a combination of antibiotics and sometimes even dental surgery. The antibiotics will help to clear the infection while the surgery will remove the abscess. In somewhat more serious conditions, root canal procedures may be needed.
Prevention
Periodontal abscesses are usually caused by poor dental hygiene. Plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth can lead to an infection. The infection then causes the gum tissue to break down and form an abscess. Practicing healthy oral hygiene can prevent the development of a gum abscess, which includes brushing your teeth daily twice or thrice and also flossing them regularly. Brushing after meals can also help!
1Health Medical Center
1Health is a trustworthy medical center where you can find good treatment options for a periodontal abscess. At 1 Health; expert dentists will diagnose your case, and provide you with the appropriate treatment(s) needed.