All About Abscess


Toothaches are never pleasant and people generally want the pain gone as quickly as possible. When you have an unexpected toothache, remember us at OnCall Dental in Fresno.

Some pain can be an indication of a much more serious problem within the mouth that requires emergency care. Such is the case with an abscessed tooth.

An abscess tooth is a tooth that has been damaged or infected and has formed a pus sack around the root or nerves. This is the body’s natural defense mechanism and works to try and prevent the infection from spreading. However, this mechanism does not always work and infection is able to spread to the jaw bone, neck, and head. It can quickly become a serious problem for those with an abscess. It is worth noting that abscessed teeth are typically quite painful as well.

There are three types of abscess and the type depends on the location of the abscess.

  • Periapical: forms within the tooth itself and is very painful.
  • Gingival: forms typically on the gum line and relatively easy to treat.
  • Periodontal: forms deeper in the gums near root of tooth or nerves. This poses the greatest threat to moving to surrounding tissue and jaw bone due to its location.

Curious as to what causes these types of painful formations? There are several causes in fact:

  • Tooth decay left untreated is the most common cause.
  • Gum disease
  • Plaque build-up
  • Trauma to mouth
  • Food stuck between teeth and gums (which causes cavities and decay)
  • Rough dental hygiene

 

What are the symptoms someone may feel with an abscessed tooth? If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below, contact Dr. Mirelez now at 559-900-2332

  • Throbbing pain that does not stop
  • Pain when eating or drinking
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Greater pain while chewing
  • Bitter taste from draining pus
  • Small lump inside mouth near gums
  • Swelling of face
  • Bleeding in gums
  • Foul smelling breath that does not seem to go away with brushing