If you have untreated gum disease or advanced cavities, you may develop an abscessed tooth. This happens when the gums or the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected. If a dentist has recently diagnosed you with an abscess, you need to get treatment promptly. Here’s a guide that will help you understand why and what to expect from the procedure.

What Is an Abscessed Tooth?

An abscess is a pocket of fluid or pus that forms around the decayed tooth. It can occur on the tip of the tooth’s root or on the gums. This condition won’t heal on its own, and a dentist needs to drain the fluid to relieve the pain it causes. If it’s left untreated, the infection can spread throughout the jaw, neck, head, and other parts of the body.

How Do You Know If You Have an Abscessed Tooth?

An abscessed tooth can start causing discomfort immediately, and it may worsen over time. If you experience any of these symptoms, or a combination of them, visit your dentist for an evaluation:

• Throbbing pain at the gum line
• Pain that radiates to the ear, jaw, or neck
• Increased pain when lying down
• Discomfort when eating
• Redness and swelling of the face
• Inflamed gums
• Fever
• Tooth sensitivity
• Bad breath
• Discolored or loose teeth
• Swollen or sore lymph nodes in the neck or jaw

How Do Dentists Treat Abscesses?

Your dentist will need to drain the fluid to relieve the pressure it creates.

The procedure will vary based on where the abscess is located. If it’s on the gum line, they may make a small incision to drain it. If it’s on a tooth root, your dentist may perform a root canal to effectively drain the infected pulp, then add a filling or crown to prevent bacteria from entering the area. To treat the infection, they may also prescribe you antibiotics.

Serving Wood County and Wisconsin Rapids, WI, New Horizons Dental LLC provides quality treatment for patients of all ages. The professional and qualified staff strives to create an inviting atmosphere to keep you comfortable during your appointment. They also provide surveys at the end of your treatment to ensure patient satisfaction. For information on their services, visit their website. To schedule an appointment, call (715) 424-7810.