Tooth abscesses do not go away on their own. It is imperative to visit a dentist for treatment if you have any of the symptoms of a tooth abscess. If you are in the Austin, Texas area, seek Austin preventative dentistry with Toothbar, the Austin Dental Spa.
What is a Tooth Abscess?
To understand this better, let’s look at what a tooth abscess is. When bacteria builds up either between the gum and teeth or inside the tooth (due to cavities), a pocket of puss can form; this is a tooth abscess.
Risks of a Tooth Abscess
The danger of an abscess is the risk of infection spreading to other parts of the body such as the neck, surrounding bones, and the head. An untreated or ruptured abscess can even create life-threatening conditions including infection spreading to the brain or heart, sepsis, or pneumonia.
Tooth Abscess Symptoms
One can have an abscess for months without symptoms. Considering the severity of potential consequences for an untreated abscess, regular dental visits and identifying the symptoms when they do present are both critical.
If you experience a sudden unpleasant, salty fluid in your mouth along with relief, the abscess likely ruptured. The relief does not indicate the infection is gone; rather the infection has an increased opportunity to spread. If you experience difficulty breathing, swallowing, or a fever and swelling in the face, visit the emergency room immediately.
Prevention and Treatment of Tooth Abscess
Austin preventative dentistry surveys show 46% of people’s reason for not visiting a dentist in 2015 was having no reason to go or hadn’t thought of it.
For a medical condition that can start asymptomatic but can lead to other fatal health issues, preventative dental visits are more important than many realize, 10% of respondents had fear or apprehension of dental visits.
A dental spa, like the Toothbar, is an option for those needing a supportive and calming atmosphere to ease dental fears.
Treatment for a tooth abscess often includes antibiotics to treat the infection, but can also include drainage of the abscess, root surgery to remove infected tissue, and sometimes extraction of the affected tooth.
Given that many Texans have reported feeling limited from laughing, smiling, or talking due to oral problems, along with the potential expanded health issues stemming from untreated abscesses, make that dental appointment right away, for prevention or treatment.
If you’re among those who seek a less painful and more caring experience, visit the Toothbar in Austin, Texas.
As a dental spa, Toothbar aims to change the dental experience from one of anxiety and pain to one of relaxation and confidence-inspiring results. Call: 512-949-8202
