A tooth abscess is an infection that often requires a prompt visit to the emergency dentistry office. With the lockdown in place due to the COVID-19 outbreak, dentists have limited dental procedures to emergency treatment. The extent of pain and swelling typically determines if there is a dental emergency. However, if the abscessed tooth is not treated immediately, the infection may spread to the jawbone, face and neck.
An abscessed tooth is considered a dental emergency. Delaying treatment can potentially have fatal consequences. Abscesses can cause significant pain because the condition is a result of an infection in the inner layer of the tooth. The body tries to fight the infection, causing the buildup of bacteria, tissue and pus. A person with an abscessed tooth may experience significant discomfort. Since the infection is bound to spread, anyone experiencing the symptoms of an abscessed tooth should contact the dentist immediately and visit the emergency dentistry office as soon as possible.
The dentist can recommend antibiotics to minimize the spread of infection. The antibiotics will usually relieve the swelling and pain within a day or two. Still, it is vital to remember that the relief is only momentary; antibiotics will not cure the abscess. The cause of infection is deep inside the tooth and removed from antibiotics, which only works on infections through the bloodstream.
To treat an abscess, the dentist needs to remove the cause of infection (bacteria). This could mean removing the tooth entirely through extraction or cleaning the infection inside and filling the void to prevent further infection. The process of removing infected tooth tissues, cleaning, sterilizing and filling the abscessed tooth is known as root canal therapy.
A tooth abscess that causes persistent pain is something to worry about. If it causes severe pain around the jawbone, neck or ear, then there is a major problem. Also, if the abscess makes the teeth sensitive to hot or cold temperatures or causes pain when eating, it should be checked immediately. The abscessed tooth can also cause facial swelling and inflammation of the lymph nodes.
During the call to the dentist, request an urgent appointment and describe the symptoms so they are aware of the severity of the situation. During the wait for the dentistry, one can alleviate discomfort by rinsing the mouth with saltwater solution and over-the-counter pain relievers. If the pain is unbearable, ask the dentist for recommendations. They will recommend medications that will provide comfort until a visit to the office is possible.
A cold compress on the outside of the cheek can minimize swelling. Alcohol and tobacco substances are not advisable. Brushing and flossing also are also needed to continue to remove plaque and bacteria that can worsen the issue.
The emergency dentistry office is available to handle an abscessed tooth during the COVID-19 outbreak. If you suspect a tooth abscess, be sure to call the dentist first for instructions on how to manage the condition and book an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://lancasterpadentist.com or call G.J. Palmieri, DDS & Associates, LLC at (717) 708-9010 for an appointment in our Lancaster office.
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