When you have a pocket of pus around an infected tooth, this is called a dental abscess. At Ottawa Smiles Dental, Dr. Todd Brower, of Holland, MI, uses root canals to treat a dental abscess and help clear up the infection.

What Should I Know About Dental Abscesses?

A dental abscess is usually caused by a bacterial infection that has accumulated within the tooth's pulp. Bacteria can easily access the mouth as a by-product of the food we eat and sticks to the teeth, damaging them and the gums, also known as plaque.

When you don't remove the plaque with proper brushing and flossing, the bacteria spreads inside the pulp and gums resulting in an eventual abscess.

What Are the Symptoms of a Dental Abscess?

The signs and symptoms of a dental abscess depend on its severity and progression. However, pain is the main symptom of a dental abscess. Other symptoms include:

• Heightened sensitivity to hot and cold drinks or food
• Foul taste in the mouth
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue or feeling "sick"
• Trouble opening mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Insomnia
• Pain radiating to the eaw, jawbone, and neck

It is essential to know that pain with an abscess can be very intense and only grows as it is left untreated.

What Are the Types of Dental Abscesses?

There are only three types of dental abscess:

1. Gingival: Abscess found in the gum tissue and does not affect the tooth or periodontal ligament.
2. Periodontal: Abscess grows from the supporting bone tissue of the tooth.
3. Periapical: Abscess grows in the soft pulp of the tooth.

What is the Treatment for Dental Abscesses?

Dr. Brower of Holland, MI, uses root canals and other treatments to cure dental abscesses. As an experienced dentist, he can also quickly identify an abscess and recommend that those who suffer from them seek medical care immediately.

Other forms of treatment recommended include:

• Antibiotics
• Pain medication
• Incision and drainage of abscess
• Root fillings
• Surgery to remove disease tissue with recurring infections.
• Tooth removal

For a minor abscess, you can use some home remedies to help manage your pain. You will want to avoid hot and cold food and drink, chew using the unaffected side of your mouth, avoid flossing around the abscess and use a very soft toothbrush.

Even though home remedies may help, it is essential to visit a dental professional to avoid further complications. At Ottawa Smiles Dental, Dr. Brower of Holland, MI, offers root canals and other dental abscess treatment options and is available for an appointment by calling (616) 399-3600.