Abscessed Tooth Emergency in Vancouver, WA

An abscessed tooth is a pus-filled infection caused by bacteria entering the tooth’s pulp through decay or damage. This condition can lead to severe jaw, gum, and tissue infections if not promptly addressed. Types of abscesses include:

• Gingival abscess: Forms in the gums without affecting the tooth or root.
• Periapical abscess: Develops at the tooth root’s tip due to decay or fracture.
• Periodontal abscess: Occurs in the bone and tissues supporting the tooth, typically due to gum disease.

If you’re looking for tooth infection treatment, an abscessed tooth often requires immediate dental care.

Signs of an Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth can cause intense dental pain and other symptoms, indicating the need for emergency care. Symptoms include:

• Swollen or red gums
• Persistent, throbbing toothache
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Swollen lymph nodes and a bad breathe and taste in the mouth

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact our dental office in Vancouver for timely treatment.

Treatment Options for a Tooth Abscess

At our local dentist office, we evaluate your condition to recommend the best tooth infection treatment. Options may include:

• Draining the abscess: Your dentist makes a small incision to release pus and disinfect the area.
• Root canal: Removes the infection to save a severely decayed tooth.
• Tooth extraction: If the tooth or teeth can’t be saved, an extraction might be necessary.
• Antibiotics: For infections that spread to nearby tissues, antibiotics can help prevent further spread.
• Periodontal treatment: A periodontist may perform deep cleaning and other procedures for periodontal abscesses.

Home Remedies for Temporary Pain Relief

Before seeing a dentist, certain home remedies may offer temporary relief:

• Clove oil, applied in small amounts, has mild anesthetic effects.
• Saltwater rinses can soothe discomfort.
• Peppermint tea bags or over-the-counter pain relievers can help.

Why Choose an Emergency Dentist?

An emergency dentist is skilled in handling urgent dental issues, providing timely relief for conditions like abscessed teeth. Not getting dental care right away can cause bigger problems, like infections spreading to the jaw or even sepsis. For immediate help, contact our Hazel Dell dentist to manage your dental emergency effectively.

Preventing a Tooth Abscess

Good orodental hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, helps prevent abscesses. Visit our dental implant provider in Vancouver, WA, for regular exams to detect any potential issues before they worsen. In case of dental trauma, contact our office immediately.

Risk Factors for Tooth Abscesses

Poor dental hygiene, high-sugar diets, and dry mouth can increase the risk of abscesses. Maintaining good oral habits and staying hydrated are key to reducing this risk. For any signs of dental infection or abscess, consult your local dentist to safeguard your oral health.