Does the inside of your mouth or jaw ache? Are you experiencing pains while chewing or have you noticed that your gums are inflamed and puffy in a particular area? These symptoms could point to an abscessed tooth, which is classified as a fluid-filled sac containing pus and bacteria.
Depending on where an abscess is located, it may resemble a small pimple on gum tissues surrounding teeth. This is a periodontal (gum) abscess, and typically occurs when bacteria seeps into the space between the tooth and gum line. On the other hand, an abscess can develop when the soft tissue inside the root canal of a tooth dies and becomes inflamed and infected. This type of abscess is called a periapical abscess. While individuals will certainly experience pain as a result, they will not visually see the abscess, because it is located inside the tooth. While a periapical abscess is far less common than a periodontal abscess, it poses a great risk to the surrounding bone and jaw.
As a rule, dentists urge patients that suspect that they have an abscess to call them, whether they’re experiencing pain or not. Experts recommend seeing a dentist if you have the following symptoms:
- Sharp pain that doesn’t go away
- Severe tooth pain in another area of the mouth
- Fever
- A bitter taste in the mouth
- Unusually bad breath
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swelling and redness in the gum tissues
- Swelling of the upper or lower jaw
- Pain when speaking or chewing
- Overall discomfort and soreness in the mouth
While you may not have all of the above-mentioned symptoms, it’s important to call the dentist even if you are only experiencing a few. It’s also important to understand that if your abscess appears to be draining, you should still contact the dentist. You might need an antibiotic to guard against infection in other areas of the body from the infected bacteria.
The Focused Care And Attention You Need And Deserve
At Smile Avenue dental care, Dr. Patrick Vuong is dedicated to delivering an exceptional dental care experience. If you’re experiencing discomfort from a tooth abscess, rest assured, Dr. Vuong will provide the attentive care you require. He goes the extra mile to ensure your comfort throughout the process. Don’t wait until your dental issue escalates into an emergency. Contact Cypress Dentist Smile Avenue today for prompt assistance.
