The Ugly Truth About Dental Abscess

When there is an infection at the base of a tooth, it is considered a dental abscess. If it gets worse, this would cause a person’s face to swell. Eventually, it will become what you call cellulitis, and this is a serious dental condition.

Pus may have developed at the tip of a tooth root. If dental abscess continues to be ignored, it can lead to swelling on the gum. Thus, expect a more dangerous infection to spread on the person’s face. Once the swelling starts, it can immediately spread.

A dental abscess appears as a cavity or a mere crack in a tooth. You would notice an excruciating pain when taking either hot or cold drinks, or eating solid foods. The level of pain depends on the severity; it may spread the tooth area to the jaw. It may even extend up to the ear.

What can you do at home?

Once you notice a swelling or pain on the affected areas mentioned above, you can do these helpful tips to relieve the pain and prevent further infections.

• Do not eat or chew on the affected area. If you can, switch chewing on the other jaw.
• Your tooth will be more sensitive to the changes in temperature so avoid the extremes, and do not take too hot or too cold drinks.
• If you notice a crack, you may put oil of cloves on the infected tooth. This helps to lessen the pain. It is also effective on open cavities or chipped tooth. Oil of cloves can be conveniently bought at leading drugstores nationwide.
• Some pharmacies even have a “toothache kit.” You can also the paste provided to treat infections. Apply it on the affected to make it less sensitive to the changes in temperature.
• You may also put an ice pack on your jaw to less the pain.
• There are also meds to help you manage the pain. However, it is best that you consult a medical professional before taking medications because it can affect your health especially if you have chronic liver disease, stomach ulcer, or any kidney-related diseases.

A follow-up check is needed.

Just because have carefully followed the tips, it does not mean that you don’t need a doctor. You still need to seek the help of dental hygienist or dentist. There are affordable dental clinics like Algodones Dental Care.

Usually, cellulitis should be checked by a medical professional within 24 hours because it will continue to be a problem. The infection or dental abscess has to be drained, and your tooth may be removed to avoid further complications.

The symptoms:

If you feel any of the following, you need to go to a doctor immediately. Do not delay!

• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Swelling eyes or if swelling spreads to your face or neck
• Drowsiness, weakness, or fainting
• and especially if you have a HARD TIME SWALLOWING.

Seek medical attention right away. You may call our hotline at (928) 888-1888, or you may visit Algodones Dental Care at 45 Capri Blvd, Lake Havasu City, Arizona. At Algodones Dental Care, we offer high-quality service for an affordable price.