When a Tooth Abscess Is a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies include things like extreme toothaches, dislodged or broken teeth, cracks, and abscessed teeth. When a tooth becomes abscessed, it does not always present emergent symptoms, which is typically a good thing. However, when a tooth abscess is serious, the result may be painful and create a state of dysfunction. In this case, a dental emergency is present, which leads to the need for treatment from a general dentist. Continue reading to find out more. 

Understanding the urgency of a tooth abscess

Below is a quick overview of tooth abscesses and when they become a dental emergency. Having a thorough understanding of this information can be helpful when this problematic experience arises.

The cause of a tooth abscess

Abscesses are typically caused by bacterial infections in the oral cavity. Teeth that are extremely infected may become abscessed if treatment is not administered in a timely manner. Infections that get ignored typically spread, which is the case with an abscess. The bacteria reach the pulp and cause the tooth to become abscessed, which can be painful and detrimental to one's oral health. Other causes include gum disease as the infection can spread over time. 

What to do

When a tooth abscess is present, it is first and foremost necessary to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. From there, rinsing the mouth thoroughly multiple times a day with salt water is recommended. The salt helps keep the tooth and entire oral cavity as clean as it can be. Additionally, it can help reduce inflammation or irritation. Secondly, it is recommended to take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help minimize discomfort until the tooth can be treated. 

Knowing when an abscess is considered a dental emergency

There are a few indicators that tell one when a tooth abscess is considered to be emergent. Review these so that you know when to get to a dentist. 

  • Excruciating pain that does not go away with the help of over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Puss or liquid coming from the tooth or surrounding area
  • The tooth or surrounding area is bleeding
  • Swelling and inflammation around the tooth
  • Dysfunction of the tooth at hand, as well as the surrounding area

Each individual may experience one or more of these symptoms when a tooth abscess is present. If any are being experienced, it is necessary to immediately get to a dentist. Ignoring these symptoms can put the tooth and surrounding area at risk. Ignored tooth abscesses can lead to tooth loss. 

Find out more from a general dentist

General dentists are often trained to address and deal with dental emergencies, which can arise at just about any time. In most cases, dental emergencies are unexpected, making them impossible to prepare for. Thankfully, general dentists' training allows them to think quickly and act appropriately. To learn more about what to do with a dental abscess or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.thecolonydentist.com or call The Colony Dentist at (972) 534-6001 for an appointment in our The Colony office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Emergency Dentist in The Colony, TX.

Related Posts

When Should You Go To An Emergency Dentist Vs. The ER?

When a dental emergency hits, it is important to know where to go to access the right care. An emergency dentist is often the right provider, although life-threatening emergencies require a trip to the emergency room. Learning when to go to the emergency dentist versus the emergency room can save you time, money, and discomfort.…

Emergency Dentist: When To Seek Immediate Dental Care

Wondering when you should see an emergency dentist? Read on to learn more. Regular dental care can prevent emergency dental treatment. Unfortunately, dental emergencies do happen unexpectedly, even if you brush and floss regularly. In such cases, it is a great idea to visit an emergency dentist immediately.Many people do not know whether their dental…

The Difference A General Dentist Makes And Specialty Services They May Offer

A general dentist plays an essential role in maintaining lifelong oral health by providing preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care for patients of all ages. While specialists focus on particular aspects of dentistry, a general dentist provides a wide range of services to address routine needs and detect issues early. Understanding what distinguishes a general dentist…

General Dentist Vs. Specialist: What’s The Difference?

Dentistry encompasses a broad range of skills and areas of focus designed to maintain or improve oral health. General dentists are the most commonly thought of practitioners, and rightfully so, with many seeing them at least twice a year. However, there are a host of dental specialists that individuals may need to encounter at some…

The Colony Dentist

Share
Published by
The Colony Dentist

Recent Posts

Tips From Dental Practice: 3 Ways Oral Health Impacts Your Overall Health

Good oral health is important for more than just how your teeth look. Our dental…

7 days ago

Tooth Extractions Demystified: When, Why & What to Expect

While it is natural to feel intimidated by tooth extractions, this procedure can help you…

1 week ago

CEREC Crowns Are Polished and Bonded in Place

Restoring a tooth surface with a crown used to be time-consuming, requiring multiple office visits.…

2 weeks ago

Reasons When a CEREC Restoration Is Advised

CEREC® (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) restorations are convenient and accurate procedures. Each CEREC…

3 weeks ago

CEREC Crowns vs Traditional – Which Is Better, Bonded or Cemented in Place?

You may have heard of CEREC® crowns as an option for repairing your tooth, but…

4 weeks ago

How CEREC Reduces the Number of Dental Visits for a Crown

Getting a crown usually requires at least two dental visits: One to take a mold…

1 month ago