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Abscessed Teeth: The Types, Causes, and Treatments

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When you have a toothache that doesn’t go away, it’s important to see a dentist. This could be a sign of an infection or cavity, and it’s essential to get treated right away. If you don’t, the infection could spread and cause serious dental problems.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS — Family & Laser Dentist at Pickering Square Dental

An abscessed tooth is a tooth that has become infected or has decayed to the point where the nerve is exposed. This can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. If you have an abscessed tooth, it is vital to see a dentist immediately so the infection can be treated.

The Types of Abscessed Tooth 

child with dentist

There are two types of abscessed teeth: periapical and periodontal. Periapical abscesses occur at the tip of the tooth’s root, while periodontal abscesses occur in the gums. Both types of abscesses can be extremely painful and should be treated as soon as possible.

If you think you may have an abscessed tooth, it’s essential to see a dentist right away. The sooner the infection is treated, the better. If you have an abscessed tooth, your dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection. In some cases, the affected tooth may need to be removed. Learn more about contact our Pickering dental office.

The Causes of and Treatments for Abscessed Tooth 

An abscessed tooth is a severe dental problem that can cause a great deal of pain. It occurs when the nerve of the tooth becomes infected and the surrounding tissue becomes inflamed. The most common cause of an abscessed tooth is a bacterial infection. Other causes include a cracked tooth, a deep cavity, or gum disease.

If you have an abscessed tooth, there are a few things you can do at home to ease the pain:

  1. Rinse your mouth with warm water several times a day to help reduce swelling and pain.
  2. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen to help with the pain.

The goal of treatment for an abscessed tooth is to relieve pain, get rid of the infection, and fix the underlying problem. If you have a dental abscess that gives you intense pain, it is important to see a dentist or other medical professional right away. Abscesses do not obviously go away on their own and can actually become worse over time, even if the pus is drained. This is because the bacteria can still spread and damage surrounding tissue.

If your dentist suspects you have an infection, they may recommend using diagnostic imaging tests to confirm their diagnosis. These tests can help identify the location of the infection, any possible causes, and any other areas that may be affected. The treatment options for abscessed teeth are:

  • Antibiotics
  • Drainage
  • Root canal
  • Tooth extraction

Takeaway 

man at the dentist

In conclusion, an abscessed tooth is a serious dental issue that requires prompt treatment by a dentist. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the mouth and body, potentially causing serious health complications. 

Additionally, the pain associated with an abscess can be quite severe, making it difficult to eat, sleep, or even work. Therefore, if you think you may have an abscessed tooth, it is vital to see a dentist as soon as possible to start the appropriate treatment.

Do you have a dental emergency in Ajax? Trust Pickering Dental Services. Our dentists know how to provide the best in preventative dental care so you and your family can enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles. Call us!

Helpful Resources

For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association Oral Health.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.

What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?

We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.

Dr. Marvin Lean

About Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS

Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS, is the owner and lead dentist at Pickering Square Dental. With decades of experience in family and laser dentistry, Dr. Lean is also the official dentist of the Toronto Maple Leafs. He is a member of the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) and the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). Dr. Lean and his team provide comprehensive dental care including sedation dentistry, dental implants, emergency dental care, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scarborough, Oshawa, and Markham.

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Are you 65 or older, under 18 or 18 – 64 with a Disability Tax Credit? Pickering Square Dental now offers services under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), a federal initiative providing essential dental care for eligible Canadian residents. Services include cleanings, exams, fillings, and more.

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