Dental Abscess

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• A dental abscess (AB-sess), also called a dentoalveolar abscess, is a collection of pus (yellowish infected fluid) in or around the tooth. This may include pus in the pulp (inside center of the tooth), gums, or jaw bone. It may also be seen in an area where a tooth has not yet come out of the gums. A dental abscess may be caused by different bacteria (germs). The bacteria usually enter when the tooth enamel (outer cover of the tooth) is broken by tooth decay. Decay usually occurs with poor mouth care or hygiene. Bacteria may also enter after an injury to the tooth, such as when a tooth is broken or chipped. Poor oral hygiene or a weak immune system may increase your risk of having a dental abscess.
  
  
• Common signs and symptoms include a toothache or a tooth that may be loose or very sensitive to pressure, temperature, or tapping. You may have pain, redness, and swelling of the affected area, and trouble with opening or closing your mouth. You may also have a fever and enlarged neck lymph nodes. Your caregiver will do a physical exam and other tests to diagnose a dental abscess. Tests may include needle aspiration, culture and smear exams, and x-rays. Treatment includes use of antibiotic medicine, removing the pus, or dental procedures, such as a root canal. With treatment, such as medicine and a root canal, your abscess may be cured and more serious problems may be prevented.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

• Keep a list of your medicines: Keep a written list of the medicines you take, the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list of your medicines or the pill bottles when you see your caregivers. Do not take any medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, or food supplements without first talking to caregivers.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed: Always take your medicine as directed by caregivers. Call your caregiver if you think your medicines are not helping or if you feel you are having side effects. Do not quit taking your medicines until you discuss it with your caregiver.

Ask your caregiver when to return for a follow-up visit. Keep all appointments. Write down any questions you may have. This way you will remember to ask these questions during your next visit.

Alcohol: Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can damage your brain, heart, and liver. Almost every part of your body can be harmed by alcohol. Drinking alcohol can also make your illness worse. Talk to your caregiver if you drink alcohol, and ask for information about how to stop.

Diet: Eat a variety of healthy foods from all the food groups every day. Include whole grain bread, cereal, rice and pasta. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, including dark green and orange vegetables and legumes (dry beans). Include dairy products such as low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese. Choose protein sources such as lean meat and poultry (chicken), fish, beans, eggs and nuts. Ask your caregiver how many servings of fats, oils, and sweets you may have each day, and if you need to be on a special diet.

Mouth care: Every day, brush your teeth or rinse your mouth after you eat and before you go to sleep. Gently brush your teeth and gums using a brush with soft bristles. See your dentist for regular check-ups.

Quit smoking: It is never too late to quit smoking. Smoking harms the heart, lungs, and the blood. You are more likely to have a heart attack, lung disease, and cancer if you smoke. You will help yourself and those around you by not smoking. Ask your caregiver for more information about how to stop smoking if you are having trouble quitting.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have a fever (increased body temperature).
  
  
• You have an injury that causes a crack in your tooth.
  
  
• Your skin becomes itchy, swollen, or develops a rash after taking your medicine.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition, care, or treatment.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• You get new symptoms or old symptoms return after you have been treated.
  
  
• You have bleeding from your mouth that does not stop.
  
  
• You have trouble breathing.
  
  
• You have trouble or pain with swallowing or cannot eat or drink.
  
  
• Your face suddenly becomes swollen or the swelling increases.
  
  
• Your pain gets worse.

Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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