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Dental Infection

A dental infection (tooth abscess) originates at the tooth or it’s supporting structures and can spread to the surrounding tissue. Dental infection is the result of bacterial infections causing a pocket of pus to form in different regions of the tooth or gums. The infection spreads as the pocket increases in size, often causing sharp pain.

Anyone who doesn’t maintain good oral health can develop a dental infection.

How are dental infection diagnosed?

Besides examining the tooth and surrounding tissue for signs of infection, the dentist may diagnose dental infection by:

  • Recommending an X-ray to help recognize the origin of the dental disease
  • Suggest a CT scan to ascertain if the infection has spread to other areas within the neck and also to identify the extent of the infection.
  • Tap and press on the teeth as the tooth that has an abscess at its root is typically sensitive to touch or pressure.
  • Recommend Thermal tests to determine the health of the pulpal tissues.

    • What are the treatments for a dental infection?

    Dental infection are treated by removing the source of the infection and draining away the pus.

    Depending on the location of the infection and how severe the infection is, possible treatments include:

  • Removing the affected tooth (extraction): This may be necessary if root canal treatment isn't possible.
  • Root canal treatment: A procedure to remove the infection from the root of an affected tooth before filling and sealing it.
  • Incision and drainage: Where a small cut (incision) is made in the gum to drain the abscess.

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