Discover the facts you need to know about abscessed wisdom teeth?

Wisdom tooth abscess: What is it?

The abscess is an infection caused by untreated tooth decay. The most common cause of abscessed wisdom tooth: dental pulp dies as a result of untreated inflammation which results in an infection that destroys tissue (necrosis).

The periodontal abscess is related to impairment of the periodontium (the supporting tissue of the tooth) formed by the gum and the bone. The endodontic abscess is at the end of the root of the tooth. The abscess is sometimes linked to a complication caused by the push of wisdom teeth.

An abscessed wisdom tooth is dangerous for the other teeth as well. An untreated tooth infection can spin off remotely by the blood (septicemia). The abscess can spread to surrounding tissues and develop into inflammation of the tissues of the face.

Every kind of people needs to tabscessed wisdom teeth seriously. Patients with heart deases are at risk of overwhelming infection (endocarditis). Athletes at risk of joint and muscle problems. There is a risk of miscarriage during the first trimester of pregnancy. Dental infections also can cause sinusitis.

What are the mechanisms of wisdom teeth abscess?

Untreated tooth decay develops into dentine (calcified tissue covered by enamel), which is in contact with the dental nerve. The pain increases as the multiplication of bacteria spread around the environment.

When the abscess becomes "mature" it should be cleansed and treated in a professional way.

How can you identify dental abscess?

The first cause of dental infection is a sensitivness to heat, cold and sweet. After that it can evolves into fast heart beating or it makes pressure on the tooth and an welling of the cheek.

If the toothache longs more than 5-6 days without any progress it not meant any good. Perhaps the tooth is dead and the dental nerve is likely to rot (necrosis).

How to prevent dental abscess?

Simple hygiene tasks reduce the risk of toothache over 90%, such as brushing teeth at least twice a day and use dental floss to clean between the teeth. A dental consultation is also essential at least once a year.

When to consult?

If you experience any of the signs of abscessed wisdom teeth you should consult your dentist as soon as possible. It is important in order to keep the tooth alive. Even if the intensity of pain become lighter or disappears after a few days it is better to show it to a dentist. Every dental assistant knows that this is an emergency situation so they will give you an appointment as soon as poosible.

What does the dentist?

The dental surgeon drains the pus if does not flow spontaneously, soothes the pain and reduces the risk of spreading infection.

Then he realizes endodontic treatment: it devitalized tooth, removes the inflamed tissue, deep cleans and disinfects infected canals in the roots. It clogs the channels (root canal) with a special paste and possibly laying a wreath.

The prescription of antibiotics effective against bacteria involved (amoxicillin, macrolides) is essential in frail or at risk (who wear whatever they are), and sometimes that of anti-inflammatory.

How to make consultation with the dentist?

The practitioner can prescribe medication to take before the appointment (analgesics, anti-inflammatory). The recommended doses of non-prescription drugs should not be exceeded, even if the pain is strong.

Self-medication with prescription drugs is strictly against inappropriate.

It is essential to quote as accurately as possible the symptoms (pain frequency, date of onset), medical history and current treatments.