Dental abscess - Collection of pus in gums and around the teeth.
Types of dental abscess :
1) Periapical abscess.
2) Periodontal abscess.
PERIAPICAL ABSCESS:
Periapical abscess is a collection of pus at the root apex of a tooth.
Usually occurs as a result of untreated dental cavity leading to pulpal infection, an injury to the tooth.
Signs and symptoms:
1. Severe toothache that may radiate to other teeth, neck, ear.
2. Swelling in your gums or cheek.
3. Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
4. Difficulty in chewing and biting.
5. Swollen lymph nodes under your jaw.
Treatment - Root canal treatment and antibiotic therapy. In severe cases, we may need to remove the tooth and go for replacement.
PERIODONTAL ABSCESS:
Periodontal abscess is a collection of pus around the tooth root (sides of tooth root).
It occurs as a result of periodontal pockets, along with dental plaque, calculus and bacteria.
Oral mucosa over abscess appears as red, swollen and painful to touch.
Signs and symptoms:
1. Bad breath.
2. Severe pain.
3. Pus discharge through the periodontal pocket.
Treatment - Pus drainage, scaling, curettage and LANAP( Laser Assissted New Attachment Procedure). In some cases we may need to do Root canal treatment to the involved tooth. In severe cases we may need to remove the tooth and go for replacement.
CONCLUSION:
Leaving a tooth abscess untreated can lead to serious, even life threatening complications.
Visit your dentist for regular checkups and professional cleaning.