Abscess Treatment
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, typically originating from the tooth's nerve (periapical abscess) or the surrounding gum tissue (periodontal abscess). Abscesses are serious and can cause intense, throbbing pain, swelling of the face or gums, fever, a foul taste in the mouth, and general malaise. Without treatment, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues, the jawbone, and in rare but serious cases, to other areas of the body.
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, abscess treatment begins with an immediate evaluation to determine the source and extent of the infection. The priority is to drain the abscess, relieve pain, and control the infection. Drainage may be achieved by opening the tooth to allow the infection to escape, incising and draining a soft tissue abscess, or a combination of both. Antibiotics are prescribed when appropriate to support the body in clearing the infection.
Once the acute infection is managed, definitive treatment addresses the underlying cause. A periapical abscess originating from inside the tooth typically requires root canal therapy to remove the infected pulp and seal the canal system. A periodontal abscess may require scaling and root planing or other periodontal treatment to address the gum disease driving the infection. In cases where the tooth is too compromised to save, an emergency extraction removes the source of infection entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have a dental abscess?
Common signs include severe, persistent, or throbbing pain in a tooth or the surrounding gums, swelling in the face, cheek, or neck, a visible bump on the gum that may ooze pus, a foul or salty taste in the mouth, fever, and sensitivity to pressure. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek dental care immediately.
Can a dental abscess be dangerous?
Yes. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the jaw, head, neck, and in severe cases, the bloodstream. A spreading dental infection is a medical emergency. Prompt treatment is essential to contain the infection and prevent serious complications.
Will antibiotics cure a dental abscess?
Antibiotics can help control the infection, but they do not eliminate the source. The abscess will not permanently resolve until the underlying cause, whether it is an infected tooth or a periodontal condition, is treated directly. Antibiotics are a support measure, not a standalone cure.
Can an abscess come back?
If the underlying cause is not fully treated, the infection can recur. Completing the recommended definitive treatment, whether root canal therapy, periodontal care, or extraction, is essential for preventing a recurrence.
