What is a gingival abscess? How can a person tell when they have a gingival abscess? This article will talk about the signs of gum abscess and the treatment options available for people who have it. Read on to find out what to do if you have a gingival abscess.
What Is A Gingival Abscess?
Gingival abscess or periodontal abscess is an infection that develops in the area where the teeth meet the gums. A gingival abscess is usually the result of when plaque and tartar is allowed to develop on the surface of teeth. In turn, plaque and tartar will attract bacteria to grow in the affected area and cause all sorts of damage to teeth, gums and other tissues in the mouth.
How To Tell If You Have A Gingival Abscess
There are certain symptoms that a person can look out for if they are trying to tell if they have a gingival abscess or not. If they are able to get diagnosed before anything serious happens, it may mean the difference between losing a tooth and saving it. Here are some of the most common symptoms of tooth abscess.
Tooth Sensitivity
If you feel pain or mild discomfort when you drink hot or cold beverages or consume food that is in extreme temperatures as well, you may have a gingival abscess. Tooth sensitivity may be a sign that the outer layer of the tooth, called the enamel, is wearing away because of a bacterial infection. This outer layer of teeth is meant to act as a protective barrier for the inner and more sensitive layers of the tooth. If it is broken down by bacteria in the gingival abscess, the tooth will more likely become sensitive.
A Strange, Foreign Taste In The Mouth
If a gingival abscess is present, there might be a strange taste in the person’s mouth. This is due to the pus that may be coming from the gingival abscess.
Loose Teeth
A loose tooth or teeth may also be a sign of a gingival abscess. This is a sign that the underlying bone may be weakening due to the infection. It is important that action is taken as soon as possible to prevent the teeth from falling out.
Fever And Other Signs Of Infection
Pain in the area as well as fever are also signs that something is not right. These are your body’s way of giving you warning that there may be a gingival abscess or other types of infection.
Treatment Options For A Gingival Abscess
The first step to getting treated is to visit your dentist to get diagnosed. Once the dentist will be able to confirm that you indeed have a gingival abscess, they will be able to prescribe medicines, recommend you to have a root canal or tooth extraction to get rid of the infection.
Since the infection is in the gums, they may also recommend that you have gum surgery to get rid of the underlying infection that is causing the gingival abscess. Seeing your dentist as soon as you discover symptoms of gingival abscess will make them better able to save your teeth and your overall oral health.
Recent Comments