A dental abscess is an accumulation of pus related to an infection. It causes severe pain and is sometimes manifested through other local or general symptoms (discomfort or swelling of the mouth or face, fatigue, fever, etc.). A Dentist in Puyallup WA can determine the cause and treatment very quickly.
How does an abscess occur?
Often, this condition results from a complication of untreated tooth decay. This can progress to the tissues located at the center of the tooth (or “pulp”) and trigger:
* A bacterial infection
* An abscess, especially if the germs reach the end of the root of the tooth. It can touch the entire pulp
Other causes of an abscess
Dental trauma is one of the most common causes of an abscess. Following trauma (recent or not), the tooth’s pulp can be destroyed. Sometimes, the dead tissue becomes infected and this causes an abscess.
Gum disease or injury should also be looked at as a reason. In case of a gum injury or pathology, bacteria can develop between the tooth and surrounding tissue, causing an abscess. Your Dentist in Puyallup WA will treat the issue accordingly.
In the lower jaw, the crown (visible part) of a wisdom tooth (third and last permanent molar appearing after the age of 18) is sometimes covered with tissue that is infected. Food residues and germs can lodge between the tooth and tissues and generate abscesses.
Symptoms associated with a dental abscess
The most characteristic sign of an abscess is intense, throbbing pain in the tooth or gum region. In general, this painful sensation occurs suddenly and can get worse in a few hours or days. Sometimes, it spreads to the ear, lower jaw, or neck, and on the same side as the affected tooth.
Other symptoms that sometimes appear:
* A general feeling of discomfort or fatigue
* Fever ranging from 101 to 106 degrees
* Sleep disorders
* Localized edema of the face (swollen and reddened areas)
* Swelling of the gum (around the infected tooth) or neck glands
* Difficulty opening mouth
* An unpleasant taste in the mouth
* Discomfort to swallow or to move the tongue
* Sensitivity to very hot or very cold foods or drinks
* Pressure pain during chewing
For more details, contact a local dentist today.