Inflamed and Abscessed Teeth
An abscessed tooth is a dental condition in which the soft tissue inside the root canal, also called dental pulp, has become inflamed and infected. The infection usually occurs when a dental cavity goes untreated and bacteria have spread deep within the tooth. Left untreated, an abscess can progress to a serious, life-threatening bacterial infection throughout the entire body.
Pulpitis
Pulpitis is a dental condition characterized by inflammation of the dental pulp, which is the soft tissue located inside the tooth. The dental pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Pulpitis typically occurs as a result of untreated tooth decay, trauma to the tooth, or dental procedures that may have damaged the pulp.
There are two main types of pulpitis: reversible pulpitis and irreversible pulpitis. Reversible pulpitis is an early stage of inflammation where the dental pulp can still recover. Common symptoms of reversible pulpitis include temporary sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, mild to moderate tooth pain that subsides quickly, and discomfort when biting or chewing.
On the other hand, irreversible pulpitis is a more advanced stage where the inflammation has progressed to a point where the dental pulp cannot heal on its own. Symptoms of irreversible pulpitis include persistent tooth pain, heightened sensitivity to temperature, spontaneous pain even without stimulation, swelling around the affected tooth, and sometimes a bad taste or odor due to the presence of infection.
If left untreated, irreversible pulpitis can lead to the formation of a dental abscess, which is a collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection. In such cases, the pain may intensify, and the surrounding gums and tissues may become swollen and tender.
If you suspect pulpitis, it is essential to seek dental care promptly. A dentist can diagnose the condition through a physical examination, dental X-rays, and other diagnostic tests. Treatment options for pulpitis typically involve removing the inflamed pulp through a procedure called root canal therapy. In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary.
Signs You May Have an Abscess
- Continuous sharp or throbbing pain
- Pain when chewing
- Red, swollen gums
- Swollen neck or jaw
- Fever
- Bitter taste in the mouth or bad breath
Treatment of an Abscess
If your tooth has an abscess, your treatment options consist of root canal therapy to clean and remove the infection, or endodontic surgery. Your endodontist may also choose to add an antibiotic to your treatment plan. This will prevent the infection from spreading further into the jaw and bone tissue. After your treatment, you will need to return to your dentist, who will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function.
Tooth Abscess Prevention
The good news about a dental abscess is that it’s easily preventable! Schedule regular exams by your dentist to monitor and address any cavities. Also, making sure to follow effective home-care practices, such as brushing twice a day and flossing, and eliminating excess sugar in your diet, are simple ways you can prevent an abscessed tooth.
