Gum Abscess: Symptoms And Treatment

If you have a pimple on your gum that keeps growing or is filled with pus, it could mean you have an oral abscess. It occurs due to bacterial infections. Generally, mouths are full of bacteria, some of which can be harmful. If your gums have an opening, the unhealthy bacteria will get in and cause an infection. If left untreated, the infection will form a pimple that may develop pus over time. So, how can you know that you have a gum abscess? Here are signs to look out for and the standard treatment options.

Sensitivity to Certain Foods or Beverages

It's common to experience tooth sensitivity to extremely cold or hot meals or drinks when the gum is infected. This problem is likely caused by increased nerve activity. It could also mean that the abscess involves the affected tooth or teeth.

Pain After Sleeping

You'll likely experience pain in the affected area if you get an abscess. However, the intensity of the pain may increase when you sleep or lie down, especially on the affected side. This extra pain is caused by gravity pressure (cheek strain on gum). The already-disturbed nerves will be strained or irritated more, increasing the pain.

Bad Breath

As mentioned before, an abscess is caused by harmful bacteria, which typically smell bad. Remember, the bacteria feed on the gum and produce waste. Consequently, this will lead to bad breath. Maintaining oral hygiene or using mints and mouthwash will not provide a lasting solution, so make sure you see a dental expert for proper treatment.

Fever

Each time you have a fever, your body's immune system is overworking to eliminate an infection. Since a dental abscess is a form of infection, you will likely develop a fever if you have one.

Treating Gum Abscess

It would help if you visited a dentist once you notice any of the abovementioned signs. If left untreated, the gum abscess can cause other severe health conditions.

Generally, the dentist will make an incision into the affected area and drain the abscess to remove all the bacteria causing the infection. Then, they will clean the infected area using anti-bacterial flushes to prevent further infections. Moreover, if they suspect an ongoing infection, they will prescribe medication to help clear it.

If you cannot see a family dentist for treatment within a few hours or days, you may consider other remedies to alleviate the discomfort. For instance, you can use pain medication or rinse the mouth with Epsom salts to sanitize the infected area.

An abscess requires oral treatment immediately, so don't ignore it. Visit a dentist like Westnedge Family Dentistry to find out more.