A tooth abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms around the root of an infected tooth caused by a bacterial infection. Abscesses can form in various areas of the tooth. A periapical abscess develops at the root’s tip, whereas a periodontal abscess develops in the gums along the side of a tooth root, says the best dentist in Kolkata.

A dentist treats a tooth abscess by draining it and removing the infection. They may be able to save your tooth with a root canal treatment, but the tooth may need to be extracted in some cases. Untreated tooth abscesses can lead to serious complications.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a tooth abscess are:

  • Severe, throbbing toothache that can radiate to the jawbone, neck, or ear
  • Intolerance to hot and cold food
  • Sensitivity to chewing or biting pressure
  • Fever
  • Facial or cheek swelling
  • Tender, swollen lymph nodes under the chin or in the neck
  • If the abscess ruptures, you will experience a sudden rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth
  • Difficulties with breathing or swallowing

Causes

A periapical tooth abscess occurs when bacteria infiltrate the dental pulp that contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue, says the specialist of the best dental clinic in Kolkata.

Bacteria enter the tooth through a dental cavity or a chip or crack and spread all the way down to the root. The bacterial infection can result in swelling and inflammation at the root’s tip.

Risk elements

These factors can increase your chances of developing a tooth abscess:

Poor oral hygiene

Not taking proper care of your teeth and gums, such as brushing and flossing twice a day, can increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, tooth abscess and other dental and mouth complications.

A high-sugar diet

Sugary foods and beverages, such as sweets and sodas, can contribute to dental cavities and lead to tooth abscesses, says the specialist of the dental clinic in Salt Lake.

A dry mouth

Having a dry mouth can increase your chances of developing tooth decay. Dry mouth is frequently caused by a side effect of certain medications or by aging issues.

When should you see a doctor?

If you experience the symptoms of a tooth abscess, see your dentist right away.

If you have a fever and swelling in your face and cannot get an appointment with your dentist, go to the nearest emergency room. If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, you should also go to the emergency room. These symptoms could mean that the infection has spread further into your jaw and surrounding tissue or even to other body parts, says the expert of the best dental clinic in Salt Lake.