Dental Abscess Causes and Treatment

Toothaches can be very painful, but when they lead to infection the problem becomes more serious. Most of us know how painful a canker sore can be, but what about a dental abscess? An abscessed tooth is a painful infection that is commonly caused by tooth decay, dental trauma, or periodontal disease. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists encourage you to seek treatment right away if you have signs of symptoms of a dental abscess.

Most abscesses are painful because they originate from a bacterial infection in the mouth. Bacteria exist in plaque, so if you lack proper oral hygiene, you increase your risk of developing a dental abscess. Abscesses can form very quickly and resemble a pus-filled bubble. The abscess will not go away on its own, so it’s impossible to seek treatment as it will need to be drained and treated with antibiotics. If the infection is not treated, it can destroy the bone surrounding the infected tooth. Rinsing with salt water may reduce the pain, but it will not eliminate the problem.

If you have questions or concerns about dental abscesses, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Prevent Periodontitis

Periodontal disease has four different stages and today, The Oyster Bay Family Dentists choose to discuss periodontitis. If you’ve been told that you have gingivitis, we highly recommend that you reverse it by developing a rigorous oral hygiene routine. Periodontitis develops if gingivitis is left untreated and this aggressive form of gum disease can lead to tooth loss if not treated promptly.

If you have persistent bad breath, gums that are reddish-purple, or gums that are tender to the touch, then you have some form of periodontal disease and it’s important to get a proper diagnosis so that you can begin treatment. Because periodontitis involves plaque buildup that can cause a “pocket” or a “gap” between the gums and teeth, you increase your chances of developing a dental abscess. During your dental appointment, our doctors may use various tools to loosen and remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth. Once you leave the office, it is up to you to brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to prevent this condition from returning or becoming more severe.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.