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Dental Abscess
WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
A dental abscess (AB-sess) is an infection around the
root of a tooth or in the gums or jawbone. The infection causes
pus to collect, and a lump can appear.
Causes
Dental abscesses often get their
start when bacteria invade a decayed tooth; the decay may then
travel to the gums or jawbone. Decay can also begin in the
mouth when teeth are not brushed or flossed
properly.
Signs/Symptoms
Typically, you'll develop fever,
redness and swelling of the gums or cheek. If you have a lump,
it may feel hot. Other signs include tooth or mouth pain, a
loose tooth, or inability to close your mouth all the way. If
the abscess spreads, your face, neck, or chest may
swell.
Care
Your dentist may need to drain
the pus from the abscess. During this procedure, you're likely
to be given gas or numbing medication to help you relax and to
minimize the pain. You'll probably be given antibiotics to
treat the infection, and pain medicine to ease your
discomfort.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
Rinse your mouth with warm water every hour or as
needed to ease the pain. This will help draw the infection
from the abscess.
-
For pain, you may take over-the-counter medications,
such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
-
To help ease the pain, avoid chewing on the affected
side for at least 2 days; you may need to limit yourself to
a liquid diet.
-
Putting ice on your face over the affected area may
also relieve the pain. Apply the ice for 10 to 20 minutes
out of every hour, as necessary.
-
If the abscess is drained, the dentist may leave a
small hole or drain. Keep the area free of food by rinsing
with water after eating. You'll need to return to the
dentist to have the drain removed.
-
If an antibiotic is prescribed, take it as directed
until you have finished all the medication. Do not stop
taking it when you begin to feel better. If you end
treatment too soon, some bacteria may survive and re-infect
you.
-
To prevent abscesses:
-
Brush regularly with a toothbrush recommended by
your dentist.
-
Floss daily and use a fluoride mouthwash,
toothpaste, tablets, or supplements as instructed by your
dentist or dental hygienist.
-
Reduce the amount of sugar in your
diet.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
You have a high temperature.
-
Your pain becomes worse.
-
You have any new symptoms or problems that may be due
to the medicine you are taking.
Seek Care Immediately If...
-
You have new or increased swelling in your face, jaw,
cheek, eye, or neck.
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