Dental Abscess Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Dental abscess can happen to anyone at any time. It can be a very painful situation and frightening, and causes swelling of the face.
What is a dental abscess?
Dental abscess is accumulation of PUS (protein-rich fluid) in gum or teeth that caused by bacterial infection and it can spread into oral cavity.
Causes of dental abscess: The most common cause is poor oral hygiene that leads to gum disease or dental caries (cavities). If untreated it can spread to neck and face. The risk of dental abscess increase with smoking, recent oral surgery, poor oral hygiene and patients with auto-immune disease
Signs and Symptoms: Dental abscess is very painful and it happens suddenly, patient will feel sensitivity with hot and cold food or drinks and difficulty in swallowing and mouth opening. Other Symptoms: Fever, malaise and bad taste in patients mouth.
When to seek medical care for a dental abscess
It is highly recommended that any person suffering from an abscess immediate appointment with the dentist, to prevent things - such as the spread of infection
Treating a dental abscess: Dentist is the only one who can treat dental abscess effectively. You can use ibuprofen (not for asthmatic patient and patient with stomach ulcers) or naproxen or aspirin (not for pregnancy, breastfeeding and patients under 16 years old) to treat inflammation and pain.
Prevention of dental abscess: The most important role in prevention is to keep your oral cavity healthy by brushing and flossing after every meal. Treat any cavities to prevent development of dental abscess and avoid tobacco smoking or chewing.