Treatment of Dental Abscess
Treatment of dental abscess focuses on eliminating the infection, relieving pain, and preserving the affected tooth if possible. In most cases, dentists successfully manage a dental abscess by combining drainage, dental procedures, and medication. The goal is to remove the source of infection and prevent recurrence.
Initial Pain Management
While awaiting treatment:
Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation
Warm saltwater rinses may provide temporary relief
Cold compresses applied to the outside of the cheek can reduce swelling
However, these methods are supportive only and do not treat the underlying infection.
Draining the Abscess
The first step in treatment is to release the pus:
The dentist may make a small incision in the gum to allow drainage
If the abscess drains spontaneously, the dentist will clean the area thoroughly
Removing the pus relieves pressure and reduces pain
Root Canal Treatment
For a periapical abscess:
A root canal procedure is often recommended
The dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the canals, and fills the space with a sealing material
Dentists usually cap the tooth with a crown to restore function and strength
Tooth Extraction
If the tooth cannot be saved:
The dentist may recommend tooth removal
This is typically followed by drainage of the abscess and cleaning of the socket
Dentists may consider replacing the extracted tooth with a bridge, denture, or implant later
Periodontal Treatment of Dental Abscess
In cases of a gum abscess:
Deep cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing are performed
The dentist may also smooth the root surfaces to prevent further bacterial growth
In some cases, gum surgery may be required to remove infected tissue
Antibiotics
Prescribed if the infection has spread or if the patient has a weakened immune system
Common choices include amoxicillin, metronidazole, or clindamycin
Antibiotics are not a substitute for definitive dental treatment
In summary, treatment of dental abscess involves controlling infection, relieving symptoms, and restoring oral health. Prompt dental care ensures successful outcomes and reduces the chance of complications.
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