Can a Tooth Abscess Heal
A dental abscess is an infection in a tooth that has formed a pus-filled pocket next to the tooth or at the base of the root. An abscess will not heal on its own and requires professional attention right away. It is possible for it to rupture, which will provide immediate relief but that does not mean that the abscess is gone and you should still seek treatment as the pocket will refill.
What causes a tooth abscess?
Anyone can develop a tooth abscess and it is important to be aware of the signs that you may have an abscess so that you know when to seek treatment. Here are a few things that can contribute to the formation of a dental abscess:
- Tooth decay and gum disease
- Impacted tooth
- Trauma to your teeth, gums or mouth
- Radiotherapy or chemotherapy
How do I know if I have a tooth abscess?
There are some symptoms that you can look out for to help you identify if you have a dental abscess.
- Redness or swelling in the gum, cheek, or jaw
- Toothache or pain in the gum tissue
- Bad breath or a bad taste that does not go away with brushing
- A pimple-like spot on your gum tissue
- Difficulty opening your mouth and chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold, sugar, or acids
How is an abscess treated?
The method of treatment will be determined by the severity of the abscess. If it is caught early, your dentist may be able to provide a prescription for an antibiotic to clear the infection. In some cases, they may decide to drain the abscess by making a small incision in the gum tissue to allow the pus to drain out and then use saline to irrigate the area.
In more severe cases, treatment by an endodontist for root canal therapy can be an option to help save. During a root canal, the doctor will drill a small access hole in the affected tooth and then clean out each canal to remove bacteria and infection. If the tooth is unable to be saved with any of these treatments, the tooth may need to be extracted.
Extraction is really the last resort to treat an abscess. When all other treatment options are either inappropriate or unsuccessful, removing the tooth altogether can prevent further damage to the area.
An abscess is a result of infection within the tooth. Bacteria can get into your tooth through decay or a fracture, both of which leave the tooth compromised. Preventing an abscess is just one reason that it is important to practice good oral hygiene and to see your dentist regularly. A small cavity can quickly grow and allow bacteria and infection to fester. If you think you have a tooth abscess, visit your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and the spread of infection.