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A dental emergency can strike you at any time and anywhere. Growing infections in your mouth can sometimes result in a mouth abscess that affects your daily life. Have you been wondering if your dental abscess should be considered an emergency? This confusion can end up making you feel anxious and alarmed until you see a dentist.
Read this blog to learn if this oral issue is indeed a dental emergency and how emergency dentists can help you.
What Exactly Is a Dental Abscess?
This oral condition is more than a nuisance. It’s a collection of pus caused by bacterial infections around your teeth or gums. Here’s how it typically occurs:
- Periapical abscess: Occurs at the end of a tooth’s root, typically due to untreated decay.
- Periodontal abscess: Develops in the gums alongside a tooth and is associated with gum disease.
- Gingival abscess: Begins in the gum tissue, usually from something foreign.
The Telltale Signs: Is It a Dental Emergency?
A dental abscess is often an indication that you need to call an emergency dentist in Charlotte immediately:
- Pulsating, persistent pain that refuses to subside, even with medication.
- Excessive face, jaw, or neck swelling can also indicate a serious problem.
- Fever or chills signify a severe infection that can spread to the rest of your body.
- A foul taste or bad breath that won’t go away, even after brushing.
- Having trouble opening your mouth.
If you’re experiencing any combination of these symptoms, see a dental professional before it becomes more serious.
Why Would a Dental Abscess Become an Emergency?
The actual danger of a dental abscess lies in how far the infection could travel. Unchecked, the bacteria can transfer from your gum or tooth into your jaw, neck, or even internal organs. Possible complications include:
- Cellulitis: An infection in the skin that can quickly spread.
- Osteomyelitis: Bone infection.
- Sepsis: Potentially fatal infection of the whole body.
- Ludwig’s angina: Under-the-tongue swelling that may block your airway.
How Do Emergency Dentists Treat a Dental Abscess?
After you reach an emerfency dentist, they might use these methods to treat your oral problem:
- Dentists will drain the abscess to drain the infection.
- The infection treatment may involve a root canal, cleaning deep down, or, in a few instances, extracting the tooth.
- They will provide you with antibiotics if the infection has entered your body already.
- These professionals will also use different pain-relief methods to help you heal comfortably.
Can You Prevent a Dental Abscess?
You cannot avoid every sort of dental emergency. However, you can reduce your risk with a few easy habits:
- Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss or use interdental brushes daily.
- Change your toothbrush every 1–3 months.
- Regularly visit a dental professional for cleanings and checkups.
- Quit smoking and reduce consumption of sweets.
Treating cavities or gum disease early can prevent a dental abscess.
These oral abscesses are notorious for appearing at the most inconvenient times. However, you should not take their appearance lightly and see an emergency dentist to get yourself evaluated. The professionals will find the exact cause and treat you to stop the infection from spreading in your mouth and body.
Are you ready to protect your gums and teeth? Contact us for a consultation today!
