Tooth Abscess - Causes - Better Medicine

What causes a tooth abscess?

A tooth abscess is caused by bacteria that infect the inside of a tooth. Poor dental hygiene, which leads to dental caries (cavities) or periodontal disease (gum disease), is the most common cause of a tooth abscess. A tooth abscess can also result from bacteria invading tissue in the mouth after dental work or other causes of injury to the teeth, such as chipping and breaking of the teeth.

What are the risk factors for a tooth abscess?

A number of factors increase your risk of developing a tooth abscess. Not all people with risk factors will get a tooth abscess. Risk factors for a tooth abscess include:

Poor dental and oral hygiene
Recent injury to the mouth or teeth, including chipped teeth
Recent oral surgery
Smoking

Reducing your risk of a tooth abscess

You may be able to lower your risk of a tooth abscess by:

Brushing your teeth regularly
Eating less sugar
Flossing your teeth regularly
Having regular dental examinations to monitor your oral health
Using antiseptic mouthwash

INTRODUCTION

What is a tooth abscess?

A tooth abscess is a bacterial infection inside a tooth. The infection leads to a buildup of pus inside the center of the tooth, and it can be very painful. The infection can originate as a result of poor dental hygiene or injury to the tooth, which allows bacteria to penetrate deep inside.... Read more about tooth abscess introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of a tooth abscess?

Symptoms of a tooth abscess include toothache, as well as pain and swelling around the infected tooth. Left untreated, a tooth abscess can infect the surrounding tissue, including the jawbone, or cause a serious systemic (body-wide) infection that may lead to fever, chills, nausea and vomiting.... Read more about tooth abscess symptoms

TREATMENTS

How is a tooth abscess treated?

Treatment of a tooth abscess begins with seeking care from your dentist. A tooth abscess can usually be diagnosed by a simple examination by your dentist. An X-ray may be helpful in identifying the extent and location of the infection.... Read more about tooth abscess treatments