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Alternative names Return to top
Periapical abscess; Dental abscess; Tooth infection; Abscess - toothDefinition Return to top
A tooth abscess is a collection of infected material (pus) resulting from bacterial infection of the center (pulp) of a tooth.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
A tooth abscess is a complication of tooth decay. It may also result from trauma to the tooth, such as when a tooth is broken or chipped. Openings in the tooth enamel allow bacteria to infect the center of the tooth (the pulp). Infection may spread out from the root of the tooth and to the bones supporting the tooth.
Infection results in a collection of pus (dead tissue, live and dead bacteria, white blood cells) and swelling of the tissues within the tooth. This causes a painful toothache. If the root of the tooth dies, the toothache may stop, but the infection remains active and continues to spread and destroy tissue.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
The patient will feel pain when the dentist taps the tooth. Biting or closing the mouth tightly also increases the pain. The gums may be swollen and red and may drain thick material.Treatment Return to top
The goals of treatment are elimination of the infection, preservation of the tooth, and prevention of complications. Antibiotics may be given to fight the infection. Warm salt-water rinses may be soothing. Over-the-counter pain relievers may relieve the toothache and fever. Do not place aspirin directly over the tooth or gums because this increases irritation of the tissues and can result in mouth ulcers.
Root canal surgery may be recommended in an attempt to preserve the tooth. The center of the tooth, including the nerve and vascular tissue (pulp), is removed along with decayed portions of the tooth. The root and surface of the tooth remain in place. The cavity that is created in the core is filled and repaired, and a crown may be placed over the tooth.
Surgical drainage of the abscess or extraction of the affected tooth may be necessary.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
The infection of tooth abscess is usually curable with treatment. Preservation of the tooth is possible in many cases.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your dentist if persistent, throbbing toothache or other symptoms of tooth abscess occurs.Prevention Return to top
Prompt treatment of dental caries reduces the risk of tooth abscess. Traumatized teeth should be examined promptly by the dentist. Update Date: 10/9/2003 Updated by: Michael Kapner, D.D.S., Comprehensive and Aesthetic Dentistry, New Rochelle, N.Y., Editor, Ninth District Dental Association. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |