A relentless, throbbing toothache can turn even the simplest daily tasks into a struggle. Eating becomes painful, sleep feels impossible, and the discomfort never fully fades. What seems like a stubborn toothache might be a dental abscess, a serious infection that won’t go away on its own. Left untreated, it can spread to the jaw, neck, or even the bloodstream, leading to dangerous complications. The good news is that relief is possible with the right treatment. Understanding the warning signs and acting quickly can stop the infection before it causes lasting damage.
At Kearns Family Dentistry, we’ve seen firsthand how prompt treatment can make all the difference in preserving your oral and overall health. With our commitment to patient care and decades of experience, we’re here to provide the urgent and compassionate treatment you need to address infections before they become life-threatening.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
A dental abscess can cause intense pain and discomfort that make it hard to focus on anything, which is why it’s essential to recognize the signs to get the treatment you need. The symptoms you may experience can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Common signs include:
- Throbbing tooth pain: This pain may worsen when lying down or applying pressure to the affected tooth.
- Swelling in the face or gums: Your cheek, jaw, or gums may appear red and puffy.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold: Eating or drinking can trigger sharp pain in the affected area.
- An unpleasant taste in Your mouth: The abscess may release pus, leading to an unpleasant taste and persistent bad breath.
- Fever or feeling unwell: If the infection spreads, you may develop a fever or fatigue.
A dental abscess is not something to ignore. Fast treatment prevents serious complications and protects your health. At Kearns Family Dentistry, we provide gentle, effective care to eliminate infections and restore your smile.
What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is an infection that occurs when bacteria enter the inner layers of a tooth or gum tissue. This infection can be extremely painful and may cause swelling, fever, and difficulty chewing. There are three main types of dental abscesses:
- Periapical abscess: Forms at the tip of the tooth’s root due to untreated cavities or trauma.
- Periodontal abscess: Develops in the gums due to severe gum disease or injury.
- Gingival abscess: Forms in the gum tissue, often caused by trapped food or debris.
No matter the type, a dental abscess is a sign your body is fighting a serious infection, and delaying treatment could lead to major complications.
Why You Should Never Ignore Signs of Dental Abscess
A dental abscess isn’t just a painful inconvenience that you need to live with. It’s a serious health risk. If left untreated, an abscess can lead to:
- Bone and tooth loss: The infection can destroy surrounding bone, causing teeth to loosen or fall out.
- Sinus or brain infections: In severe cases, bacteria from an untreated abscess can travel to the brain, leading to life-threatening conditions.
- Sepsis (blood infection): The infection can enter the bloodstream, triggering a dangerous immune response that can be fatal.
Abscesses don’t heal on their own. Getting professional treatment from our team at Kearns as soon as possible ensures we can help eliminate the infection and protect your health.
How Is a Dental Abscess Treated?
The dentist at Kearns Family Dentistry will determine the best course of treatment based on the severity of your abscess. Depending on the severity, treatment may include:
- Draining the Abscess
- Root Canal Therapy
- Tooth Extraction
- Antibiotics
At Kearns Family Dentistry, we assess the severity of the infection and provide the best treatment plan to restore comfort and oral health.
Don’t Wait to Treat a Dental Abscess
Ignoring a dental abscess can put your health at serious risk, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Kearns Family Dentistry, we’re dedicated to providing fast, effective care that eliminates infections and restores your comfort. Our experienced team understands the urgency of treating abscesses and offers compassionate solutions to prevent further complications.
With decades of experience and a commitment to patient-focused care, we take every step to ensure your treatment is as comfortable and efficient as possible. Whether you need drainage, a root canal, or other intervention, we’re here to help you heal and protect your long-term oral health. Call (610) 432-7565 or complete our online contact form to schedule an appointment today.
