An abscess tooth is an infection deep in the gums near the roots of the tooth. An untreated cavity can cause tooth decay that may lead to an abscessed tooth. Damage to the tooth such as a crack or significant chip of the tooth can cause the tooth to become abscessed.
Gum disease can also cause abscessed teeth. The gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth which can leave gaps that allow food to become trapped. If food becomes trapped, it encourages bacterial growth which leads to the infection.
The abscess is an infection that causes an accumulation of pus near the roots of the tooth. The person may experience pain. It may also feel as if the tooth has become less stable or secure than usual especially when chewing.
Signs of an abscess tooth include soreness and swelling of the gums near the tooth, fever, salty or bitter taste in the mouth, pain that is worse while chewing, bad breath, a bump or sore on the gums, redness of the gums, and swelling of the face or jaw.
If a person experiences these symptoms of abscess teeth, but the pain subsides, the person should not assume that the tooth is better. Tooth pain may stop if the abscess is so severe that it caused the tooth to die. The infection can still be present and continue to infect tissue.
Abscessed teeth are a common reason for having a root canal procedure. During a root canal, the tooth pulp is removed along with any other infected tissue. Having a root canal may be the only way to save an abscessed tooth. If necessary, the tooth may be pulled to allow the infection to drain. Sometimes, an incision in the gums is used to drain the infection. An antibiotic may also be prescribed.
Preventing and promptly treating any gum disease and cavities are necessary for preventing abscessed teeth. Good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups can go a long way to avoid this dental problem. If a tooth becomes damaged, the person should seek prompt dental treatment. Even if the damaged tooth does not hurt, it may make the tooth susceptible to tooth decay.
