Dental Abscess Treatment Portland
A dental abscess is a severe infection that develops around a tooth's root or within the gums, causing intense pain, swelling, and significant health risks if untreated. Many patients won't know they have an abscess until a dentist diagnosis it with an exam. If you are experiencing pain in your jaw or tooth, call us immediately as it can me a dental abscess. Our skilled emergency dentists in Portland provide prompt relief and effective treatment to protect your health and restore your comfort.
Immediate emergency dental care is crucial if you're experiencing symptoms of an abscess.
What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is a pocket filled with pus resulting from bacterial infection, typically forming in:
• Periapical Abscess:
Located at the tooth root due to untreated cavities or trauma.
• Periodontal Abscess:
Develops in gums near a tooth, often linked to advanced gum disease.
• Gingival Abscess:
Occurs in gum tissue but doesn't impact tooth or bone.
Regardless of the type, urgent dental care is necessary to prevent further complications.
Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
Common indicators of a dental abscess include:
• Severe toothache that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck
• Facial or gum swelling
• Discharge of pus from swollen gum tissue
• Fever or chills, signaling infection spread
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste due to pus leakage
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (signifying a serious emergency)
Dental Abscess Need Immediate Treatment
Ignoring a dental abscess can lead to severe consequences such as:
• Bone deterioration around the tooth
• Tooth loss due to widespread infection
• Life-threatening sepsis from infection entering the bloodstream
• Breathing complications due to facial swelling
If you suspect an abscess, immediately seek emergency dental care in Portland.
How We Treat Dental Abscess Cases
At our Portland emergency dental office, treatments include:
1. Abscess Drainage:
We gently drain the pus, relieving pressure and pain. Surgical incision might be required.
2. Root Canal Therapy (When Possible):
If infection reaches the tooth's inner pulp, we clean the tooth thoroughly and seal it with a crown.
3. Tooth Extraction (When Necessary):
If the tooth can't be saved, extraction is performed with subsequent tooth replacement options like implants or bridges.
4. Antibiotics:
Prescribed when infection spreads significantly, indicated by facial swelling, fever, or swallowing issues.
At-Home Relief Before Your Visit
Until you can receive professional dental care, managing pain will be important before you can get seen for your appointment. While these steps can help manage symptoms, a dental abscess is a serious infection that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications. Here are some At-home remedies you can do before your appointment:
• Regularly rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater
• Using pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Applying a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Avoiding chewing on the affected side
• Staying hydrated and limiting sugary or acidic foods
Preventing Future Dental Abscesses
Preventing a dental abscess starts with maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing to remove plaque and bacteria. Our Portland dentists always recommend the way to better oral health is Regular dental check-ups and cleanings:
• Practicing thorough daily oral hygiene (brushing and flossing)
• Scheduling regular dental check-ups
• Addressing cavities promptly
• Avoiding hard foods to prevent dental injuries
Need Immediate Dental Abscess Treatment in Portland, Oregon?
A dental abscess requires swift action. If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or infection symptoms, contact our emergency dental office in Portland immed