What causes a dental abscess?

We can define a tooth abscess as a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It is usually formed around the root of a tooth and can affect anyone, regardless of age. There are two types of dental abscess – a periapical abscess that occurs at the tip of the tooth’s root and a periodontal abscess that occurs in the gums at the side of the tooth root.

Common Causes of Dental Abscess
The primordial cause of periapical tooth abscess is bacteria’s invasion of the dental pulp. The pulp is the inner portion of a tooth filled with nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Conditions such as a deep cavity or tooth decay, gum diseases, or cracked tooth increase the susceptibility of people to develop a dental abscess.

Factors that Increase the Risk of Dental Abscess

• The first factor that increases the vulnerability of people to suffer from a dental abscess is a poor dental hygiene regimen.
• A diet with high sugar can also contribute to dental cavities that may turn into an abscess.
• A dry mouth also elevates the risk of dental decay and dental abscess.

Symptoms of Dental Abscess
You can identify a dental abscess through the following symptoms –

• Severe toothache with a throbbing sensation
• Tooth sensitivity to extreme cold and hot foods and drinks
• Fever
• Swelling in your neck and jaw
• A sudden rush of pungent-smelling and foul-tasting fluids inside the mouth happens with the pus related to abscess ruptures.
• Difficulty in breathing or swallowing.

In conclusion, a dental abscess is primarily caused by bacterial invasion of the pulp inside a tooth. Chips and cracks on a tooth facilitate the condition. It is noteworthy to mention that a dental abscess is an avoidable condition. Taking meticulous care of the gums and teeth is the first step in keeping dental abscesses at bay. Secondly, drinking fluoridated water and fluoride-based toothpaste can also help avoid the problem.

Schedule your appointment with a dentist today and get the treatment on time!