Can a Tooth Abscess Heal?
A tooth abscess is a buildup of pus in either a tooth or your gums caused by an infection. It should be addressed and treated by your dentist immediately. The tooth abscess will not go away on its own.
A tooth abscess will not disappear without proper professional treatment. If the abscess opens up and ruptures, your pain will diminish, making you believe that the problem is gone, but you still will need treatment.
If the abscess is not drained properly, the infection will spread to your jaw and to other areas of your neck, face, and head. If the infected tooth is near your maxillary sinus, the two larger spaces underneath your eyes and behind your cheeks, it can quickly create an opening between the tooth abscess and your sinus cavity. This then allows the infection to enter the sinus cavity. You can even develop sepsis, which is life-threatening as it spreads throughout your body.
Symptoms and Signs of a Tooth Abscess
Signs of an abscess include:
- An intense toothache or a pain in your gums.
- Redness inside your mouth, or on your jaw or face.
- A sensitivity to hot or cold in the immediate area.
- A swollen jaw or face.
- A constant bad taste in your mouth.
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing.
- An elevated temperature.
How to Manage your Pain from a Tooth Abscess
Here are some suggestions to consider until you can get dental treatment.
- Use over the counter pain relievers.
- Eat softer foods like soup, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes.
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush to brush your teeth.
- Avoid hot or cold foods and drinks and avoid sugar.
Treatment for a Tooth Abscess
Your dentist will diagnose and treat your tooth abscess. They will first drain away the pus. If your tooth is the primary cause of the abscess, you might need a root canal, or the tooth may need to be extracted. You may be prescribed a pain reliever for several days after treatment and possibly an antibiotic.
Causes of a Tooth Abscess
Abscesses often occur when pus accumulates beneath your teeth or gums from an infection. You may get an abscess if:
- You have a tooth that remains impacted.
- You have tooth decay or gum disease.
- You have damaged a tooth or your gums.
- You are having radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
How to Prevent a Tooth Abscess
There are some easy exercises you can take to prevent abscesses:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, spitting after brushing, and not rinsing.
- Floss between your teeth at least once a day.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups every six months.
When to See Your Dentist
Make an appointment to see your dentist promptly if you experience any symptoms of a possible tooth abscess.
If you have swelling or a fever and you cannot see your dentist, go to an emergency room. Also visit an emergency room if you have any trouble breathing or swallowing. These symptoms can indicate that the infection is spreading into your throat, jaw, or neck or another area of your body.