How Do Dentists Treat Abscesses Effectively?
Posted on: 22 June 2023
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Dental abscesses are localised collections of pus that are most commonly associated with a tooth or gum infection. They are typically characterised by severe throbbing pain and swelling, requiring a visit to the dentist. Because abscesses are usually bacterial infections, it is possible for them to spread and, therefore, potentially become life-threatening if they are left untreated. Fortunately, dental practitioners are able to employ various effective strategies to treat abscesses nowadays, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of complications.
Drainage
The primary treatment approach for a dental abscess will help to eliminate the infection. In turn, this can save the tooth and prevent the infection from worsening. Drainage of the abscess is often the first step taken in this regard. Your dentist might make a small cut into the abscess to drain the pus, something that most patients find provides immediate pain relief. If the abscess is within a tooth — known as a periapical abscess — then root canal therapy may be required to drain it properly. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp within the tooth, cleaning and shaping the root canals and then filling the cavity and sealing the space to prevent further infection from occurring.
Extraction
In some situations, a tooth may be so severely damaged that it cannot be saved. In these cases, the dental practitioner treating you may need to extract the tooth to allow for drainage of the abscess. The removal is usually followed by the socket being rinsed out to ensure the full removal of all the pus and debris.
Antibiotics
Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help fight the bacterial infection. These are typically used when the infection has spread to other parts of the body or for patients with weakened immune systems. It's essential for patients to follow the prescribed course of antibiotics, even if they feel better, to ensure the complete elimination of the infection.
Pain Relief
In addition to these treatments, dentists will recommend ways to manage the pain you might feel at home. This could include over-the-counter pain relievers, which suppress inflammation as well as pain. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water may also be advised. Whether or not this is something you're told to do, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to support the healing process and prevent future infections. Of course, further dental check-ups would also be a good idea to spot the early signs of tooth decay or gum disease, the primary causes of abscesses, before they occur.
Contact your dentist for more information.