A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the tooth’s root. It won’t get better on its own and you need an endodontist or a Fort Lauderdale FL dentist to treat it. If you neglect an abscessed tooth, the infection can spread beyond your jaw to your neck, head, or other parts of your body. A serious tooth abscess can be fatal.
Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth
The main symptoms of an abscessed tooth are throbbing pain in your gums or near a tooth. The pain usually comes on suddenly and gets worse over time if left untreated. Other symptoms are as follows:
- Swollen, red gums
- Tooth sensitivity
- Loose or discolored teeth
- pain that radiates to your ear, jaw, or neck
- pain when biting or chewing
- pain that worsens when lying down
- facial redness and swelling
- bad breath
Treatment of an Abscessed Tooth
Treating an abscessed tooth is focused on relieving the pain and clearing up the infection. Depending on your symptoms, your dentist might start with a dental X-ray to determine if the infection has spread out to other areas of the mouth. Other treatments are also available depending on the severity and type of abscess. They include:
- Draining the Abscess
- A Root Canal Procedure
- Tooth Extraction
- Antibiotics
- Removal of a foreign object such as a toothbrush bristles that got stuck in the gums
Who is the Best Fort Lauderdale FL Dentist
A tooth abscess can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene, a diet less in sugar, and a regular visit to your Fort Lauderdale FL dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. If you have questions or problems with an infected tooth, contact us today at Stanton Smiles to schedule an appointment.