Periodontal abscess is a serious dental condition that can adversely affect oral health if left untreated. The pocket of pus that grows in your gums can cause severe bacterial infection making treatment essential.
The question, however, is how to recognize the problem from its symptoms and when to seek a dentist.
We have compiled this blog, in which you will learn about the condition, its symptoms, and effective treatment strategies.
Get the best periodontal abscess treatment at Peace of Mind Dental Studio!
What is a Periodontal Abscess?
A periodontal abscess is a pocket of pus that protrudes in your gum line due to bacterial infection. You can feel the gum swollen like a small ball, and a bad taste and odor in your mouth are caused by the pus, which is painful.
Many times, dental abscesses and periodontal abscesses are mistaken for each other. A dental abscess is one where the pus erupts in the root of the tooth, while in a periodontal abscess, the gum itself swells, creating a pus pocket.
Symptoms of Periodontal Abscess
If you experience any of the following symptoms of a periodontal abscess, consult Peace of Mind Dental Studio for treatment.
- Severe toothache
- Sensitivity in tooth
- Bad breath
- Bad taste
- Swollen gums
- Extreme pain in chewing food
- Loose tooth as the gum recedes from the tooth
- A red or yellow pus pocket that might be leaking
A bacterial infection in the mouth causes pus and can lead to multiple infections and other oral problems. So, do not overlook these symptoms and consult us as soon as possible.
The Impact on Gums: Abscess Gum and Gingival Abscesses
Bacteria cause abscesses in gums and gingival abscesses, but both have different impacts on gums.
Abscess gum impacts the gums and surrounding structures. Due to improper brushing, mouth bacteria start impacting the gums, and develop in any crevices they find.
Abscess gums can also result from an injury in the gum, broken or damaged dental fillings, or bruxism, which damages the gums with excessive pressure.
Gingival abscesses impact the gum tissues but do not penetrate the deeper tissues or pulp. The most common reason for gingival abscesses is lodged food, which gets trapped and starts rotting. Flossing can solve the problem, as it is an effective method of clearing lodged food and maintaining oral hygiene.
Abscess Gum Treatment Options
Following are the abscess gum treatment options available at Peace of Mind Dental Studio, Chandler:
Drainage
The pus in your mouth only increases with time and impacts other teeth and gums. The first treatment type is to drain the pus and disinfect the area. A small incision is made in the yellow or red ball of the abscess, and the infected pus is removed.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are required as the incision made in the gum must heal. The medications help in quick healing.
Gum Surgery
Sometimes, the abscess is large, and draining it or removing it might distort the gum, which requires gum surgery wherein the gum is reshaped. Many times, only root scaling might prove to be helpful.
Root Canal
If the abscess is not treated in time, the infection might also reach the teeth and infect the pulp. In that case, a root canal is inevitable, wherein the infected pulp is removed and filled with gutta-percha. Then, it is sealed with dental sealant.
Tooth Extraction
The last resort is tooth extraction. This is the last option when no way is left to restore your tooth. You can consult us about the best replacement options for the missing tooth.
Management of Periodontal Abscess: Long-Term Strategies
Just like all dental problems, periodontal abscess is also caused by poor oral hygiene. Here are some long-term management strategies to prevent the condition. Check these out:
Regular Dental Checkup
A six-monthly dental examination will keep your oral health up to date. Your dentist will warn you about potential problems and suggest preventive or restorative measures.
Good Oral Hygiene
Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss to dislodge food from the crevices to ensure no gingival abscess.
Healthy Lifestyle
Consume a fresh and balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and all the nutrients in a balanced manner. Also, if you have any habits such as consuming tobacco, drinking, vaping, etc., you must get rid of the habits as they increase the risk of dental problems, including gum abscesses.
Final Words
It is advised that the symptoms of periodontal abscess should not be overlooked as it is a serious dental condition that requires immediate attention.
Choose Peace of Mind Dental Studio for an effective treatment. Contact us and book an appointment now!
Frequently Asked Questions
Que: Can a periodontal abscess heal on its own?
Ans: No. Medical assistance is required to drain the infection and disinfect the area.
Que: Is a periodontal abscess counted as an emergency?
Ans: Yes, a periodontal abscess is an emergency and must be treated promptly.
Que: Are antibiotics enough to treat gum abscesses?
Ans: If the abscess is detected in its infancy, antibiotics can treat it, considering drainage is not required.