Complications Arising from an Abscessed Tooth
Failure to seek treatment for an abscessed tooth can result in more severe consequences.
The infection has the potential to spread to adjacent areas of the neck and head. If the abscessed tooth is in close proximity to the sinus cavity, it can create an opening between the tooth and sinus, facilitating the spread of infection to the sinuses – the hollow spaces located behind the cheeks and beneath the eyes.
In the most dire circumstances, the infection may disseminate throughout the body, leading to sepsis, a potentially fatal condition.
Is Prevention Possible for an Abscessed Tooth?
Follow these straightforward measures to maintain optimal dental hygiene:
Regularly schedule dental checkups and cleanings.
Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to effectively clean areas between teeth and gums that are difficult to reach.
Promptly seek dental attention if you experience a loose or cracked tooth.
Reduce consumption of sugary foods and beverages, as they contribute to the formation of cavities, which can lead to abscesses.
Minimize snacking between meals.
Key Points
An abscessed tooth refers to an infection pocket located in or around the root of a tooth. Symptoms may include gum swelling, pain, and tooth sensitivity to temperature or pressure. Additionally, a pimple-like appearance on the gum may be observed. Given its seriousness, immediate dental intervention is imperative for an abscessed tooth.
