If you’ve got an abscessed tooth, you’ll know it. Characterized by a severe, sometimes throbbing pain in the tooth and even jaw, it’s a problem that must be promptly treated. However, you may be wondering if there are any home remedies for abscess tooth. In this post, we’ll explore how a tooth abscess can develop. We’ll also talk about whether home treatment is possible and the best way to do it.
Here Is What Causes An Abscess In Your Teeth
Your mouth is home to a wide variety of bacteria that feed on leftover particles of food after you’ve eaten. However, these bacteria will opportunistically invade anywhere they can, and sometimes, they can find a home close to the teeth.
Once they do this, your body’s immune response puts up a fight, and pus accumulates at the infection site. This is an abscess, and it can form in many different locations.
Two common types are periapical and periodontal abscesses. A periapical abscess occurs right at the bottom tip of a tooth’s root. It can happen because of an untreated cavity or potential injury to the tooth. In contrast, a periodontal abscess occurs at the side of the root, within the gumline.
In a periapical abscess, the bacteria can enter the sensitive pulp within your teeth. Usually protected by a strong enamel layer and the tough underlying dentin, the delicate pulp is made up of nerves and blood vessels. A cavity may leave the entrance to this pulp wide open for bacteria to invade.
The primary symptom is pain that may throb or radiate up your neck, towards or ear, or along your jaw. However, as your body fights the infection, you may experience fever, swelling, and difficulty chewing food.
A tooth abscess is treatable, but is it possible to treat it at home?
Are There Any Home Remedies for Tooth Abscess?
No, it is not possible to safely and effectively treat a tooth abscess at home. You must see a dentist as soon as possible. But if you can’t get to a dentist and have a fever, trouble breathing or swallowing, or a rapid pulse, go to the emergency room – this may be a complication of infection known as sepsis, which can be fatal.
Your dentist will drain the abscess and clean the area, as this is the foremost priority and the first step to relieving pain and removing the infection. Indeed, as it drains, you may feel immediate pain relief.
Then, the dentist may perform a root canal. Their decision is based on whether any infection in the pulp is removable. If the tooth is damaged beyond repair, they may perform an extraction and decide to forego saving the tooth altogether.
Finally, the dentist may prescribe pain medication. They may also prescribe a course of antibiotics to prevent reoccurrence.
Note, however, that you can try and relieve the pain as much as possible if you can’t see a dentist right away. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications are suitable, such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin).
Final Word: Visit Your Dentist ASAP
If you observe any signs or symptoms that indicate a tooth abscess, you must contact your dentist immediately.
Pasadena Dental Doc is a private practice that puts you first. We have a dental team that aims to provide you with comfortable, high-quality care that fits your needs and budget. To schedule an appointment, give us a call at (713) 947-0293.
BY GARGLE