Eremgency Dentist Services

Why Do Dental Abscesses Form?

A dental abscess occurs when the nerve (dental pulp) inside a tooth dies. This is usually due to a very large filling or crown, but teeth can also be affected by trauma. A blow to the mouth or other severe impact may lead to the nerve dying and eventually causing an abscess.

Acute Apical Abscess

There are two types of abscesses:

Chronic apical abscess: Often discovered on clinical examination or through x-rays.
Acute apical abscess : The nerve can die suddenly, causing extreme pain, which is often intense enough to wake you up during the night. This presents as a dull, throbbing sensation that can last for minutes, hours, or be continuous. The tooth is typically very painful to the touch or when biting.

Acute Tooth Aches and Pains

Not all sudden tooth pain is caused by an abscess. Acute toothaches may result from a variety of issues, such as trauma, cavities, or exposed dental pulp. If left untreated, this pain can escalate and may lead to infection.

Treatment needed for Dental Abscesses (AAA)

The two essential steps for treating dental abscesses are:

Draining the Infection

- This involves removing the pus from the tooth and occasionally swollen tissues.
- Drainage can be achieved through:
  - Root Canal Treatment (RCT)
  - Tooth extraction, allowing the pus to drain freely.
  - Rarely, a small incision may be made inside the mouth to release the pus.

Supplementary Antibiotics

- High doses of antibiotics may be required to combat infection, but antibiotics alone are not a long-term solution and can lead to bacterial resistance.

If you think you have a dental abscess, seek immediate treatment. Early intervention can prevent serious complications.

Trauma to the Tooth

Trauma, such as a blow to the mouth or face, can cause tooth fractures or cracks, leading to severe pain or even nerve death. When left untreated, these injuries can result in the formation of an abscess. It’s essential to seek prompt dental care after any trauma to prevent further complications.

Complications of Dental Abscesses

Facial Abscess (Cellulitis):

The infection can spread to the face, causing substantial swelling. This can lead to difficulty in swallowing or breathing and often requires immediate attention.

Sepsis (Septicaemia):

A life-threatening condition where bacteria enter the bloodstream, causing multiple organ failure. Hospitalisation and intravenous antibiotics are essential for treatment. In the UK, about 44,000 patients die from sepsis annually, but prompt care can prevent death.

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Address

Dr P Young BDS PhD specialist in oral surgery
29 Castle Street, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 1BA

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Tel / Fax Reception Staff

01606 75615

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Email

clinic@oralimplants.co.uk

Emergency Dentist Near Me: Dental Emergencies Northwich