Abscesses

What Causes a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a collection of pus that has accumulated in the tissue near a tooth. It can be caused by many different things, including bacteria and dental work. A dental abscess is usually identified by swelling, pain, and redness around the tooth. The most common symptom is pain in the area of the tooth when chewing or brushing teeth. Other symptoms may include fever and chills, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, bad breath, headache, nausea or vomiting. The most common cause of a dental abscess is bacterial infection from an untreated cavity or gum disease (gingivitis). Other causes include trauma to the area from a sharp object such as toothbrush bristles or food particles; an injury to gum tissue; and oral piercings such as tongue studs or lip rings that have been left in place too long.

How to Treat a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a type of infection that happens when bacteria enter the tooth. It can be caused by different factors such as trauma, decay or gum disease. The infection can also spread to the jawbone and cause an osteomyelitis. Dental abscesses are treated with antibiotics, pain medication, and sometimes surgery. The most common symptom of a dental abscess is swelling in the cheek or face. It can also cause pain when chewing or swallowing food and difficulty opening your mouth. If you have a dental abscess, you should see your dentist for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.

How to Prevent a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a localized infection of the soft tissue in the mouth that is caused by bacteria. It can affect any part of the mouth but most often occurs on the tongue, gums, or palate. The abscess can be painful and require treatment with antibiotics. The best way to prevent a dental abscess is to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly. You should also drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables to keep your mouth moist.