WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

What is a dental abscess? A dental abscess is a collection of pus in or around a tooth.

What causes a dental abscess? A dental abscess is caused by bacteria. The bacteria usually enter the tooth when the enamel (outer part of the tooth) is damaged by tooth decay. Bacteria may also enter after an injury to the tooth, such as when a tooth is broken or chipped. Procedures on the tooth or gums may also cause a dental abscess. Food particles that are stuck between the teeth for a long time may also lead to an abscess.

What increases my risk of a dental abscess?

• Medical conditions, such as diabetes, gastric reflux, or diseases that weaken the immune system
  
  
• Dry mouth or very little saliva
  
  
• Smoking or drinking alcohol
  
  
• Radiation therapy of the head and neck
  
  
• Certain medicines, such as steroids, allergy or blood pressure medicines

What are the signs and symptoms of a dental abscess?

• Toothache, a loose tooth, or a tooth that is very sensitive to pressure or temperature
  
  
• Bad breath, unpleasant taste, and drooling
  
  
• Fever
  
  
• Pain, redness, and swelling of the gums, or swelling of your face and neck
  
  
• Pain or difficulty when you open or close your mouth

How is a dental abscess diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will examine your teeth and gums. He will check for pus, redness, swelling, or a mass. You may also have any of the following:

• X-rays of your mouth will show broken teeth or fluid buildup.
  
  
• Needle aspiration may be used to take the fluid out of the abscess. The fluid is sent to a lab for tests. These tests may show what is causing your abscess.

How is a dental abscess treated? Treatment is done to cure your abscess and prevent more serious problems.

• Medicines:
  • Antibiotics help treat a bacterial infection.
    
    
  • Ibuprofen or acetaminophen decreases pain and lowers a fever. They are available without a doctor's order. Ask your healthcare provider which medicine is right for you. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. These medicines can cause stomach bleeding if not taken correctly. Ibuprofen can cause kidney damage. Do not take ibuprofen if you have kidney disease, an ulcer, or allergies to aspirin. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage. Do not drink alcohol if you take acetaminophen.
  
  
• Incision and drainage is a cut in the abscess to allow the pus to drain. Ask your healthcare provider for more information.
  
  
• Debridement cuts away damaged, dead, or infected tissue to help the wounds heal.

What are the risks of a dental abscess? Pus may need to be drained more than once. You may become dehydrated if you cannot drink due to pain or swelling. The abscess may burst and the infection may spread to the rest of your body. Even with successful treatment, the infection may come back. Your airway may become blocked and cause breathing problems. Depending on its location, the abscess may spread to the throat, cheek, or face. The infection can also spread to the blood. These problems can be life-threatening.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

• Your abscess returns.
  
  
• You have an injury that causes a crack in your tooth.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

When should I seek immediate care?

• You have severe pain.
  
  
• Your symptoms get worse, even after treatment.
  
  
• Your mouth is bleeding.
  
  
• You cannot eat or drink because of pain or swelling.
  
  
• You have trouble breathing because of pain or swelling.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.