If you experience pain, sensitivity, and a foul taste in your mouth, you may have developed a dental abscess. An abscess is an accumulation of pus within the teeth or gums, which develops from a bacterial infection. There are three types of dental abscess, named based on where each develops. Your Waco dentist, Dr. Corbet Locke discusses each type of abscess, treatment, and preventive care.
Three Types of Dental Abscess
The three types of dental abscess are the gingival abscess, the periapical abscess, and the periodontal abscess. A gingival abscess is confined to the gum tissue alone; a periapical abscess occurs in a tooth’s pulp; and a periodontal abscess develops in the supporting bone tissue of teeth.
Treatment for a Dental Abscess
If you develop an abscess, seek dental treatment immediately. Without treatment, an abscess can destroy bone tissue and cause tooth loss. Treatment varies based on the type of abscess.
- Gingival abscess – The abscess will be cut away and drained using a local anesthetic.
- Periapical abscess – Root canal treatment can remove the pus from the tooth. The tooth will then be filled to ward away future infection.
- Periodontal abscess – The periodontal pocket will be cleaned after the abscess is drained.
Preventive Care
Because an abscess is often the result of bacteria, keeping your teeth free of plaque and tartar is the goal of preventive care. Brush your teeth twice a day, and be sure to angle the bristles down toward the gum line. Also, floss once a day to clean areas of the tooth not reached by the toothbrush. Lastly, visit your Waco dentist regularly for professional checkups and cleanings.
Schedule a Visit with Your Waco Dentist
Regular dental visits play a vital role in your oral health. Dental cleanings can remove bacteria-ridden plaque and tartar and can prevent an abscess from developing. If it has been more than six months since your last dental visit, schedule an appointment with your Waco dentist, Dr. Locke, by calling 254-776-4888. Our 76172 dental office serves patients from Waco, Woodway, McGregor, Hewitt, and surrounding communities.