Posted on 9/1/2025 by Singing River Dentistry - Athens
A dental abscess is a painful infection that develops in the tooth pulp, the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. It can also occur in the surrounding bone. Untreated, an abscess can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.
If you think you have a dental abscess, it's important to see a dentist right away. They will examine your mouth and take X-rays to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, they may recommend a CT scan for a more detailed view.
Treatment for a dental abscess typically involves draining the pus and removing the infected tissue. This can be done with a simple incision and drainage or may require surgery. After the infection is cleared, you will likely need restorative dentistry procedures to rebuild the damaged tooth and restore its function.
What Causes a Dental Abscess?
Dental abscesses are usually caused by untreated tooth decay or gum disease. These conditions can allow bacteria to enter the pulp chamber and cause an infection. In some cases, an abscess can also develop after a dental injury or trauma.
Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
The most common symptom of a dental abscess is a severe, throbbing pain in the affected tooth. The pain may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck. Other symptoms may include:
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Fever
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Swelling in the face or neck
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Redness and tenderness in the gums
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Pus discharge from the tooth
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Difficulty swallowing
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Bad breath
Diagnosis of a Dental Abscess
Your dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to confirm the diagnosis of a dental abscess. X-rays will show the extent of the infection and help the dentist plan the best course of treatment.
Treatment for a Dental Abscess
The primary goal of treatment for a dental abscess is to eliminate the infection and relieve pain. This usually involves draining the pus and removing the infected tissue. There are two main treatment options:
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Incision and Drainage: This procedure involves making a small incision in the gum to drain the pus. The dentist may also remove some of the infected tissue. This is usually done under local anesthesia.
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Root Canal Therapy: This procedure involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth and filling the empty space with a material called gutta-percha. A root canal is typically performed under local anesthesia.
Restorative Dentistry
After the infection is cleared, you will likely need restorative dentistry procedures to rebuild the damaged tooth and restore its function. The specific procedures needed will depend on the extent of the damage. Some common restorative procedures include:
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Fillings: If the damage to the tooth is minor, a filling may be all that is needed.
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Crowns: If the damage to the tooth is more extensive, a crown may be necessary. A crown is a cap that fits over the entire tooth.
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Extractions: In some cases, the tooth may need to be extracted if the damage is too severe or if the infection has spread to the surrounding bone.
Prevention of Dental Abscesses
The best way to prevent a dental abscess is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Other ways to prevent dental abscesses include:
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Eating a healthy diet
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Avoiding sugary drinks
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Wearing a mouthguard if you play sports
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Quitting smoking
Conclusion
A dental abscess is a serious infection that requires prompt treatment. If you think you have a dental abscess, see your dentist right away. Treatment typically involves draining the pus and removing the infected tissue. After the infection is cleared, you will likely need restorative dentistry procedures to rebuild the damaged tooth and restore its function.
About Us - Athens AL | Singing River Dentistry Visit here for more information about the dentists, professional team, and latest technology at our Athens, GA dental clinic. Singing River Dentistry-Athens, 22026 Gateway Blvd Ste A, Athens, AL 35613 ~ (256) 293-5393 ~ athens.singingriverdentistry.com ~ 9/12/2025 ~ Related Terms: dentist Athens AL ~
A dental abscess is a painful infection that develops in the tooth pulp, the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. It can also occur in the surrounding bone. Untreated, an abscess can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.