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 current list of your medicines: Include the amounts, and when, how, and why you take them. Take the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency. Throw away old medicine lists. Use vitamins, herbs, or food supplements only as directed.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed: Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not working as expected. Tell him about any medicine allergies, and if you want to quit taking or change your medicine.

Ask for information about where and when to go for follow-up visits:

For continuing care, treatments, or home services, ask for more information.

Do not drink alcohol:

Some people should not drink alcohol. These people include those with certain medical conditions or who take medicine that interacts with alcohol. Alcohol includes beer, wine, and liquor. Tell your caregiver if you drink alcohol. Ask him to help you stop drinking.

Eat healthy foods:

Choose 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. Include dairy products such as low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese. Choose protein sources, such as lean beef and chicken, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts. Ask how many servings of fats, oils, and sweets you should have each day, and if you need to be on a special diet.

Mouth care:

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.

Do not smoke:

Smoking causes lung cancer and other long-term lung diseases. It increases your risk of many cancer types. Smoking also increases your risk of blood vessel disease, heart attack, and vision disorders. Not smoking may help prevent such symptoms as headaches and dizziness for yourself and those around you. Smokers have shorter lifespans than nonsmokers.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• 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.

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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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