Tooth abscess is a painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. It's most commonly caused by severe tooth decay.
What are the Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth?
A toothache that is severe and continuous and results in gnawing or throbbing pain or sharp or shooting pain are common symptoms of an abscessed tooth. Other symptoms may include:
Treatment of an Abscessed tooth ?
Strategies to eliminate the infection, preserve the tooth, and prevent complications are the goals of treatment for an abscessed tooth.
To eliminate infection, the abscess may need to be drained. Achieving drainage may be done through the tooth by a procedure known as a root canal. Root canal surgery may also be recommended to remove any diseased root tissue after the infection has subsided. Then, a crown may be placed over the tooth.
The tooth may also be extracted, allowing drainage through the socket.
Finally, a third way to drain the abscess would be by incision into the swollen gum tissue
How to avoid tooth ache ?
Since most tooth pain results from decay or gum disease, you follow the instructions for oral and dental hygiene which will have a great role in reducing the risk of tooth ache . These habits include:
• brushing teeth regularly , using toothpaste containing fluoride.
• cleaning teeth using floss once a day at least.
• visit the dentist at least twice a year to make the proper teeth care and cleaning .
In addition to these healthy habits, you must reduce sugary foods ask your dentist about the best types of treatment with fluoride.
You can also refer to the section on how to avoid tooth decay , assisted with animated slide show that explains the proper way to brush your teeth and floss.