Learn More About Dental Abscess

An abscessed tooth is a serious dental condition that occurs when a tooth’s nerve becomes infected. If you think you might have an abscessed tooth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, here are some of the signs to look out for:

• Intense toothaches or pain in your gums.
  This is often the first sign that something is wrong. The severe pain may be constant or only happen when you chew or touch the infected tooth.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink in the affected area.
  This is usually one of the most noticeable symptoms of an abscessed tooth. Eating or drinking anything hot or cold can trigger intense pain in the affected area.
• A bad taste in your mouth.
  This is often caused by pus from the abscess draining into your mouth. The taste can be foul, and it is hard to get rid of.
• Difficulty opening your mouth and chewing food.
  The pain and swelling from an abscessed tooth can make it hard to open your mouth wide. Chewing may also be difficult or painful.

Dental abscesses are most often caused by tooth decay. When plaque and tartar are not removed from the habitual teeth, they allow bacteria to grow. The bacteria produce acids that eat away at the enamel, causing cavities. If the cavities are not managed, they will progress to the dental pulp. 

Once bacteria reach the dental pulp chamber, they can cause an infection. The infection will result in the connective tissue breaking down, and pus will begin to form. The pus will eventually reach the tooth’s surface, causing a painful abscess.

You may experience pain, swelling, and fever if you have a dental abscess. While it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to have the tooth infection addressed, some home remedies can help relieve pain and swelling in the meantime. Here are a few home remedies for dental abscesses:

1. Rinse with salt water:
   Mix one teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Rinse your mouth with the mixture several times a day to help ease pain and reduce swelling.
   
   
2. Apply a cold compress:
   Placing a cold compress on your cheek can help numb pain and reduce swelling.
   
   
3. Take over-the-counter pain medication:
   Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to relieve pain associated with a dental abscess.
   
   
4. Try oil pulling:
   Oil pulling is an ancient practice involving swishing oil around your mouth for 20 minutes to draw out toxins and improve oral health. Some people find that it helps with dental abscess pain relief. Coconut oil or sesame oil are good choices for oil pulling.

Dental abscesses are unfortunately quite common, but there are some things you can do to help prevent them.

First, be sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly. This will help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, which can cause abscesses. You should also see your dentist regularly for dental check-ups and cleanings. If you have dental problems, such as cavities, you need to address them promptly, as they can also lead to abscesses. Finally, avoid injuring your teeth or gums, as this can cause abscesses.

If you have an abscess, be sure to see your dentist immediately, as they can prescribe antibiotics and drain the pus. With proper care, you can help prevent dental abscesses in the future.