What Is a Dental Abscess?
Bacterial infections can occur in your tooth, gums, and jaw bone. When left untreated, they can develop into a formation of pus, also known as an abscess. Abscesses can develop for a variety of reasons, primarily lack of oral hygiene, poor diet, and trauma.
Signs & Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
Dental abscesses come with a host of symptoms, including:
- Toothache
- Swollen face, neck, and jaw
- Bad breath
- Fever
- Gum tenderness
- Sensitivity to extreme temperatures
- Discomfort when eating and chewing
Treatment for Dental Abscess
If you believe you have a dental abscess, it’s important to schedule an appointment with North Richland Hills Dentistry right away. Early treatment is best to prevent the infection from getting worse or spreading. Most abscesses are treated with root canal therapy depending on how advanced the infection is.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is typically complete in just one treatment. First, Dr. Desai will numb the area around the affected tooth so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during treatment. We will then drill a small hole in the tooth and flush out any infected pulp, or soft tissue inside of your tooth. The area will then be filled with gutta percha, a biocompatible rubber material that replaces the pulp tissue. Finally, the tooth is sealed with a crown to protect it from decay or damage. Root canals aren’t nearly as painful as having a dental abscess, so don’t be afraid to schedule an appointment if you think you need one!
Gentle Care in North Richland Hills, TX
Dental procedures can be daunting, but at North Richland Hills Dentistry, it’s our mission to provide comfortable, professional service at an affordable price. We offer luxe amenities like pillows and blankets, flat-screen TVs, headphones, and refreshments in the lobby to help you feel right at home in our care. Don’t suffer in pain alone! Dr. Desai is here to help you maintain a beautiful and healthy smile. Give us a call or schedule an appointment with us online. We look forward to seeing you!