How to Get Rid of a Tooth Abscess in Arizona

Find out How to Get Rid of a Tooth Abscess in Arizona

This guide from S&L Dental, your trusted dental care partner in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, AZ, will help you with everything you need to know about tooth abscesses and how to get rid of them. Tooth abscesses are a common yet highly unpleasant reality for many. These pockets of infection, located at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth, can cause severe pain and a host of other symptoms. Understanding the signs, treatment options, and prevention methods for tooth abscesses is crucial for maintaining oral health and avoiding more serious complications.

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What Is a Tooth Abscess?

A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that’s caused by a bacterial infection. It’s a painful infection that happens inside your tooth or around your gums. It’s usually caused by bacteria getting into the tooth through a cavity or crack. This infection can lead to symptoms like severe toothache, swelling, and fever. This oral health issue can cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious complications.

Abscesses are a dental emergency. They don’t just cause severe pain — they can also be signs of infections that can spread to other parts of the body if not addressed promptly.

How Does a Tooth Abscess Affect Oral and Overall Health?

Aside from causing intense pain and discomfort, a tooth abscess can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening complications. If left untreated, it can cause the infection to spread to your nearby teeth, gums, or even jawbone, leading to further complications such as bone loss and the formation of dental cysts. Plus, the bacteria responsible for the abscess can enter the bloodstream and potentially cause systemic health issues if not addressed promptly. Some of the health problems associated with untreated tooth abscesses include:

Sepsis – If the bacteria from a tooth abscess enter the bloodstream, they can cause a systemic infection known as sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection triggers inflammation throughout the body, leading to organ dysfunction and potentially leading to septic shock.
Endocarditis – Bacteria from a tooth abscess can travel through the bloodstream and infect the lining of the heart chambers or valves, leading to a condition called endocarditis. Endocarditis can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including heart failure and stroke.
Brain Abscess – In rare cases, bacteria from a tooth abscess can travel to the brain and cause a brain abscess. Symptoms of a brain abscess may include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and neurological deficits. Without prompt treatment, a brain abscess can be life-threatening.

Joint Infections – Bacteria from a tooth abscess can also spread to nearby joints, causing joint infections (septic arthritis). Septic arthritis can lead to joint pain, swelling, warmth, and decreased range of motion. If not treated promptly, it can cause permanent joint damage.
Ludwig’s Angina – In severe cases of dental infection, particularly involving the lower molars, swelling can obstruct the airway and lead to a condition called Ludwig’s angina. Ludwig’s angina is a potentially life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue and neck, fever, and difficulty swallowing.

Who Gets Abscessed Teeth?

Anyone can get an abscessed tooth, but those who don’t maintain good oral hygiene are more at risk. A diet high in sugar, regular alcohol consumption, tobacco use, untreated dental issues such as cavities or gum disease, a weakened immune system, and skipping routine dental checkups can significantly increase the chance of developing an abscess. Not brushing and flossing regularly lets bacteria build-up, leading to cavities and gum disease, which can cause abscesses. It’s important to brush and floss every day, schedule regular cleanings and oral exams and fix dental problems early to avoid abscesses.

Symptoms and Causes of an Abscessed Tooth?

The primary cause of a tooth abscess is a bacterial infection, which can enter the tooth through a cavity, crack, or chip or penetrate the gums due to periodontal disease. Without proper treatment, the infection worsens, leading to the formation of pus and the characteristic symptoms of an abscess. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection, but common signs include:

Severe Toothache – This is often described as a throbbing or shooting pain that can radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck.
Swelling – Swelling of the gums or face, often appearing as a bump or lump near the affected tooth.
Sensitivity to Temperature – The tooth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
Fever – In some cases, fever may develop, especially if the infection is severe and spreading.

Foul Taste or Odor – Due to the presence of pus, there may be a foul taste or odor in the mouth.
Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing – In severe cases where swelling is extensive, it may become difficult to swallow or breathe properly.
General Discomfort or Malaise – Feeling generally unwell, fatigued, or experiencing body aches can accompany a tooth abscess, particularly if the infection has spread.

Treatment in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley

At S&L Dental, we’re committed to providing our patients in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley with exceptional care. Our experienced doctors offer comprehensive care solutions for patients with tooth abscesses. From root canal therapy to relieve the infection and preserve your natural tooth to extractions, when necessary, we ensure that your dental health is restored and your risks for further complications are mitigated. Remember, early intervention is crucial to prevent the spread of infection and to improve the prognosis of your dental health. If you’re searching online for “how to get rid of an abscess” or “tooth abscess treatment,” look no further. Contact us immediately, and rest assured that your smile is in capable hands.

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