An abscess is a swelling in the jaw, tooth or gums. Swelling can signal a number of underlying problems such as cavities, infected root canals, diseased gums, or even a broken jaw. Most cases a dental abscess is an infection at the base of a tooth. It means a pocket of fluid (pus) has formed at the tip of a tooth root in your jawbone. If the infection isn’t treated, more serious infections may spread to the face (facial cellulitis). This makes your face swell. Facial cellulitis is an infection of the skin and underlying soft tissues. This is a very serious condition. Once the infection and swelling starts, it can spread quickly.
A dental abscess often starts with a crack or cavity in a tooth. The pain is often made worse by having hot or cold drinks, or biting on hard foods. The pain may spread from the tooth to your ear, or to the area of your jaw on the same side. Contact us immediately if the pain gets worse, spreads to your neck or if you have fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
The dentists will perform a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth and gums to find and treat the cause of your mouth pain. We most likely will prescribe an antibiotic to help fight infection. Once identified we can solve the issue. However, if you are at home and find these symptoms we suggest you go to the emergency room or dial 911.:
- Swelling spreads to the upper half of your face or neck
- Your eyelids start to swell shut
- Abnormal drowsiness
- Headache or a stiff neck
- Weakness or fainting
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
Dental abscesses, infections, and swollen jaws are serious dental conditions that require prompt attention and treatment. At Emergency Dentistry in Southwest Florida, we’re dedicated to providing urgent dental care to address these issues and prevent further complications. Let’s look into what each of these conditions entails, the potential risks they pose, and what to expect from treatment.
What Are Dental Abscesses?
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms within the teeth, gums, or bone surrounding a tooth. It’s usually caused by a bacterial infection resulting from untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or dental trauma. There are two main types of dental abscesses:
- Periapical Abscess: This type of abscess forms at the tip of the tooth’s root and is usually caused by untreated tooth decay or trauma.
- Periodontal Abscess: This abscess occurs in the gums and is often associated with advanced gum disease (periodontitis).
Symptoms Of Dental Abscesses
- Severe, throbbing toothache
- Swelling in the face or cheek
- Fever
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Treatment for Dental Abscesses
- Drainage: The abscess may need to be drained to relieve pressure and remove pus. This can be done through a small incision or root canal therapy.
- Root Canal Treatment: If the abscess is caused by infection within the tooth, root canal therapy may be necessary to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the infection and prevent it from spreading.
What Are Dental Infections?
Dental infections occur when harmful bacteria invade the tooth or surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. These infections can affect the pulp (innermost part) of the tooth, the gums, or the bone supporting the teeth. Common causes of dental infections include untreated tooth decay, dental trauma, or compromised immune function.
Symptoms Of Dental Infections
- Persistent toothache
- Swelling in the gums or face
- Pus discharge from the tooth or gums
- Fever
- Bad breath or taste in the mouth
Treatment For Dental Infections
- Root Canal Treatment: If the infection has reached the pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and seal the root canal to prevent reinfection.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the infection and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body.
- Drainage: In cases of severe infection or abscess formation, drainage may be necessary to remove pus and alleviate pressure.
What Is A Swollen Jaw?
A swollen jaw can be a sign of various dental and oral health issues, including infections, abscesses, or trauma. Swelling in the jaw can result from inflammation of the gums, infection of the salivary glands, or even a fractured jawbone. It’s essential to seek prompt dental care if you experience swelling in the jaw, as it may indicate a serious underlying problem.
Symptoms Of Swollen Jaw
- Swelling or bulging in the jaw area
- Pain or tenderness
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing
Treatment For Swollen Jaw
- Identification Of Underlying Cause: Your dentist at Emergency Dentistry will perform a thorough examination and diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the swelling.
- Treatment Of Underlying Condition: Depending on the cause, treatment may involve antibiotics, drainage of abscesses, root canal therapy, or other dental procedures to address the underlying issue.
- Pain Management: Pain relievers may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort and swelling.
Why Timely Dental Care Is Crucial
- Prevention Of Complications: Untreated dental abscesses, infections, or swollen jaws can lead to serious complications, including spread of infection to other parts of the body, bone loss, or even life-threatening conditions such as sepsis.
- Pain Relief: Abscesses, infections, or having a condition that causes a swollen jaw can be severe and debilitating. Seeking prompt dental care ensures timely relief from pain and discomfort.
- Preservation Of Teeth: Early intervention can help save damaged teeth and prevent the need for extraction.
- Protect Your Overall Health: Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Untreated dental infections can have systemic effects, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other health issues.
Emergency Dentistry Is Your Dental Emergency Expert In Southwest Florida
- Same-Day Emergency Appointments: We offer same-day emergency appointments, seven days a week, to address your dental concerns promptly.
- Experienced Dentists: Our skilled dentists have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating dental emergencies, ensuring high-quality care.
- State-Of-The-Art Facilities: Our locations in Charlotte and Sarasota counties are equipped with advanced technology and amenities to provide safe, effective treatment.
- Compassionate Care: We understand the urgency and anxiety that come with dental emergencies. Our compassionate team is here to provide gentle care and support throughout your visit.
Dental abscesses, infections, and swollen jaws are serious conditions that require immediate dental attention. At Emergency Dentistry in Southwest Florida, we’re here to provide prompt and effective treatment to alleviate your symptoms, preserve your oral health, and prevent further complications. Don’t wait—contact us today if you’re experiencing dental pain or swelling. Your smile and health are our top priorities.
