Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess occurs when pus accumulates between the tooth and gum. This abscess can spread to nearby tissues, leading to severe complications. If untreated, a tooth abscess can become life-threatening. It’s an emergency that demands immediate attention from a dentist or medical expert. If you experience symptoms like a swollen jaw, pain, fever, or fatigue, you need urgent care. Contact Pulse Dental in Houston, TX. We offer same-day emergency appointments in Houston, TX.  Â
What Causes a Tooth Abscess
There are many reasons for a tooth abscess. Here is a list of major causes for a tooth abscess:
- Failed Root Canal
- Tooth with untreated severe decay
- Gum disease
- Fractured tooth
- Broken root pieces left inside gum tissue
- Impacted wisdom tooth
Treatment for a Tooth Abscess?
Treatment of an abscessed tooth has several stages. The first step is abscessed tooth drainage. Along with abscess incision and drainage, the dentist will prescribe an antibiotic. After controlling the abscess by incision, drainage, and antibiotic therapy, necessary treatment to address the cause of issue should be done. Common treatments for an abscessed tooth include:
Root Canal Treatment
If a tooth abscess arises from decay progressing into the root system, the preferred treatment is a root canal. During this procedure, a dentist or endodontist will extract the nerve from the root, while cleaning and sealing the nerve canals, afterwards, a crown is fit onto the tooth for protection.
Tooth Extraction
Another frequent remedy for an abscessed tooth is its extraction. After managing the abscess through incision, drainage, and antibiotics, the tooth is removed. In some cases, the extraction can be performed on the same day as the incision and drainage.
How Much Does it Cost to Treat an Abscessed Tooth?
The treatment for an abscessed tooth involves two stages. The first, a palliative step, aims to control the infection and is considered an emergency treatment. This includes incision, drainage, and antibiotic prescriptions, which typically cost around $350-500 in Houston, Texas. The second stage addresses the root cause of the problem, which may involve a root canal with a crown or a tooth extraction.
Does Insurance Cover Tooth Abscess Treatment?
Most insurance plans cover the cost of emergency treatment for an abscessed tooth, including emergency dental visits and incision and drainage.
FAQ
Is a gum abscess an emergency?
Yes, a gum abscess is a dental emergency. While not always life-threatening, it can cause significant pain, damage to teeth and surrounding bone, and the infection can spread. If symptoms of severe pain, rapid facial swelling, fever, and difficulty breathing or swallowing present, see an emergency dentist in Houston, TX.
What does it mean when pus comes out the tooth?
Pus coming out of a tooth indicates an active infection, often due to an abscess, gum disease, tooth decay, or trauma. It’s crucial to see an emergency dentist in Houston, TX immediately to address the underlying cause and prevent complications.
Will a dentist pull an abscessed tooth?
The best practice is to delay extraction for at least 3 to 4 days after starting an antibiotic regimen. If root canal treatment can’t save the tooth or patient unwilling to save the tooth, the dentist will perform dental extraction.
Can a dentist drain a tooth abscess?
Yes, dentists are trained to do drainage and incision if necessary.
Can a tooth abscess drain on its own?
While a tooth abscess can sometimes rupture and drain on its own, it’s essential to see a dentist for proper treatment to ensure the infection is fully addressed.
What happens if a tooth abscess bursts?
If a tooth abscess bursts, the pus drains out, which might provide temporary pain relief. However, the infection remains and can spread. It’s crucial to see a dentist immediately for proper treatment.
Will a gum abscess go away on its own?
A gum abscess, also known as a periodontal abscess, will not typically go away on its own. While the pain may temporarily diminish if the abscess ruptures and releases pus, the underlying infection is still present and can lead to more severe complications if not properly addressed.
Where do I go for tooth abscess treatment?
The best place to start is with a dentist or emergency dentist. If you don’t have access to a dentist, you should go to urgent care or the emergency room to prevent any complications.