Tooth Abscess(Dental Abscess; Abscessed Tooth)
by
Rick Alan DefinitionA tooth abscess is a sac of infected material called pus in a tooth or the gums.
CausesA tooth abscess is caused by bacteria. It begins when bacteria invade and infect the tissue around a tooth. This results in pus build-up. When the pus is unable to drain, an abscess results. Conditions that allow bacteria to invade a tooth include:
Risk FactorsFactors that may increase your chance of a tooth abscess include:
SymptomsA tooth abscess may cause:
If left untreated, complications of tooth abscess include:
DiagnosisYour dentist will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A detailed exam of your teeth and gums will be done. Images may need to be taken of the tooth and surrounding bone. This can be done with x-rays. A sample of the abscess fluid may be taken and tested. TreatmentDrainage of Abscess
Removal of Abscess Via Root Canal
Tooth Extraction (Removal)
Medication
PreventionTo help reduce your chance a tooth abscess:
RESOURCES:Academy of General Dentistry http://www.agd.org Mouth Healthy—American Dental Association http://www.mouthhealthy.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Dental Association http://www.cda-adc.ca The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association http://www.cdha.ca References:Abscess (toothache). Mouth Healthy—American Dental Association website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed August 22, 2017.
Acute apical dental abscess. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed...
. Updated June 15, 20175. Accessed August 22, 2017.
Dental abscess. NHSinform website. Available at:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mouth/dental-abscess. Updated April 13, 2017. Accessed August 22, 2017. Toothache and Infection. The Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated September 2016. Accessed August 22, 2017. Last reviewed September 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael Woods, MD, FAAP Last Updated: 9/30/2013 | |
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