Tooth Abscess Treatment Near You
A tooth abscess can be what is causing your toothache, and if left untreated, it can lead to more severe problems.
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that’s caused by a bacterial infection around a tooth. They can cause a lot of discomfort and further complications in your mouth. You will often experience severe toothache with an abscess, which can also refer to pain in your jaw, neck, or ear. Many people also experience swelling and sensitivity around their teeth and gums.
The most important thing to do if you think you may have a tooth abscess is to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Our friendly dentist in Vancouver is here to assist you with scheduling an appointment that fits your busy lifestyle. Simply give us a call or fill out our online appointment request form, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Symptoms
- Severe, uncomfortable toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Sensitivity or pressure when chewing
- Fever
- Swelling
- The foul taste of fluid in your mouth
- You might even have difficulty breathing or swallowing.
See your dentist as soon as possible if you have any signs of a tooth abscess.
Causes
Anyone with a tooth abscess will know how painful and uncomfortable they can be. And they definitely won’t go away without treatment. That’s why it’s so important to see your dentist as soon as you can.
A tooth abscess is caused by an infection around the root of a tooth when bacteria attack the dental pulp. They are usually the result of an untreated cavity, a dental injury, or prior dental work.
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of a tooth abscess; these include:
- Dental decay
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Impacted wisdom teeth
Risk factors that may lead to or exacerbate dental diseases that cause abscesses include:
- Poor dental hygiene
- A high-sugar diet
- Smoking
- Dry mouth
- Diabetes and some other systemic diseases
When to see a dentist
Book an appointment to see a dentist as soon as possible if:
- You are in pain
- Pain lasts longer than a day or two
- The pain is persistent, severe, or unbearable
- You have a fever, earache, jaw ache, or pain when you open your mouth wide
- If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling in your face or check or tender swollen lymph modes
- If you’ve had an infection in your tooth previously
- If you’re experiencing stress or run-down
FAQ
If you think you might have a tooth abscess, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible. A tooth abscess requires professional treatment, and it won’t go away on its own. Treatment of a tooth abscess may involve draining the abscess to remove the infection. In many cases, dentists can treat your tooth by performing a root canal. However, in more advanced cases, the tooth may need to be extracted. You should never leave a tooth abscess untreated, as it can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening problems.
A tooth abscess will not go away on its own. They require specialized treatment by a dentist or specialist. If left untreated, a tooth abscess can cause serious issues. We recommend booking an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. If you’re experiencing unbearable pain, choose an emergency appointment when you book online.
In many cases, a tooth abscess can be prevented. It’s important to maintain a nutritious, balanced diet and take good care of your oral health. That means a combination of at-home dental care and building a great relationship with your dentist.
We recommend a healthy lifestyle, regular self-care, and regular visits to the dentist. For optimum oral health:
- Practice good oral hygiene habits at home, including brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day
- Book hygiene visits with a dental hygienist or oral health therapist twice each year
- Book routine exams and x-ray visits with your dentist at least once each year
