What are the Symptoms of an Oral Abscess?

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing an oral abscess effectively. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

• Throbbing toothache that worsens at night or with pressure
• Redness, swelling, and tenderness in the gums or around the affected tooth
• Loose or sensitive tooth
• Fever and chills
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (in severe cases)
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or jaw
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Bad breath

What Causes an Oral Abscess?

Several factors can contribute to the development of an oral abscess:

• Tooth decay: Untreated cavities allow bacteria to enter the inner pulp of the tooth, leading to infection.
• Gum disease: Advanced stages of gum disease (periodontitis) can create pockets around the teeth, allowing bacteria to accumulate and cause infection.
• Cracked or chipped teeth: Cracks or chips in the tooth’s surface provide entry points for bacteria to reach the pulp and cause infection.
• Injury to the mouth: Trauma to the mouth can damage the soft tissue or teeth, increasing the risk of infection.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

Oral abscesses are considered dental emergencies requiring prompt attention. Here’s when to seek immediate dental care from Dr. Laith Dawood at Nebo Dental Centre:

• If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, particularly severe pain, swelling, or fever.
• If the abscess bursts or starts draining pus.
• If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• If you have a weakened immune system or any underlying medical conditions.

Treatment Options for Oral Abscesses

Dr. Laith Dawood and his team at Nebo Dental Centre prioritize your comfort and oral health. Treatment for an oral abscess typically involves:

• Drainage: The dentist will drain the pus from the abscess to reduce pressure and infection. This may involve a simple incision or a more complex surgical procedure depending on the location and severity of the abscess.
• Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to fight the infection and prevent it from spreading.
• Pain medication: Medication will be provided to manage pain and discomfort.
• Root canal therapy: In some cases, if the tooth pulp is salvageable, root canal therapy might be performed to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
• Tooth extraction: If the tooth is severely damaged or the infection is extensive, tooth extraction may be necessary.

What to Expect After Treatment

Following treatment for an oral abscess, you can expect some discomfort and swelling for a few days. Dr. Laith Dawood will provide specific instructions on aftercare, which may include:

• Pain medication as prescribed.
• Applying gentle pressure with gauze to control bleeding (if applicable).
• Maintaining a soft diet for the first few days to allow the extraction site to heal.
• Practicing meticulous oral hygiene to prevent further infection.
• Avoiding strenuous activity for at least 24 hours.

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

Nebo Dental Centre in Hamilton understands the urgency and discomfort associated with an oral abscess. Dr. Laith Dawood and his team are committed to providing prompt, compassionate, and effective treatment to eliminate the infection and restore your oral health. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate dental emergencies, ensuring you receive the care you need when you need it most.

Don’t hesitate to contact Nebo Dental Centre today at 905-381-9802 to schedule an emergency appointment if you suspect an oral abscess. Our friendly staff is here to assist you and answer any questions you may have.