HOPEFULLY NOBODY READING this has gone through a dental abscess, but it’s important to be able to recognize the signs of this dangerous oral health condition.
What Is an Abscess?
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that can form in the jaw due to a bacterial infection. The infection typically begins in the pulp of an infected tooth. Abscesses can be extremely painful. They not only put the tooth in danger but can actually become life-threatening if the infection reaches the bloodstream. An abscess should be treated by an endodontist as soon as possible.
Recognize the Symptoms of an Abscess
Common symptoms of a dental abscess are throbbing pain around the infected tooth (which can start suddenly and ramp up over time, radiate outward when lying down, and may get worse when biting down), tooth sensitivity, a foul taste, swelling and redness in the gums, a pimple on the gums, bad breath, swollen lymph nodes beneath the jaw, and even fever.
An Absess Will Not Solve Itself!
If the abscess ruptures, the release of pressure can give the impression that the problem has solved itself, but it’s still a serious dental emergency! It will not go away on its own and is much more likely to get worse, more hazardous to overall health, and more expensive to treat. Anyone who experiences these symptoms needs to schedule an appointment with an endodontist at the first opportunity.
