From the Guidelines
A dental abscess is characterized by severe, persistent, throbbing tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, and facial swelling, and requires prompt professional treatment, typically involving surgical drainage and possibly antibiotics, to prevent complications and alleviate symptoms. The symptoms of a dental abscess can vary, but common signs include:
- Severe, persistent, throbbing tooth pain that can radiate to the jawbone, neck, or ear
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Sensitivity to pressure when chewing
- Fever
- Facial swelling
- Tender and swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck
- A foul taste or smell in the mouth
- Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing
- Pus drainage from the infected tooth
- General feelings of illness, including nausea, vomiting, and general discomfort 1. According to the European Society of Endodontology (2018) [as cited in 1], surgical drainage is key in treating dental abscesses, and antibiotics should only be used in specific patient groups, such as those with systemic involvement or progressive infections. The American Dental Association (2015) [as cited in 1] also recommends against the use of antibiotics for chronic periodontitis, except for systemic sub-antimicrobial dose doxycycline as an adjunct to scaling and root planning. It is essential to seek professional dental treatment promptly to prevent complications and alleviate symptoms, as dental abscesses can lead to serious health issues if left untreated 1.
From the Research
Symptoms and Signs of Dental Abscess
The symptoms and signs of a dental abscess can vary, but common indicators include:
- Dental pain, which can be severe and have a detrimental effect on quality of life 2
- Swelling, which can be localized or diffuse 2, 3
- Fever, which can indicate systemic involvement 3
- Malaise, which can also indicate systemic involvement 3
- Lymph node involvement, which can be a sign of spreading infection 2
- Cellulitis, which can be a sign of spreading infection 2
Clinical Presentation
The clinical presentation of a dental abscess can include:
- Pain or swelling in the affected tooth or gum 2
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures 2
- Bad taste or breath 4
- Swollen or tender lymph nodes in the neck or face 2, 3
- Fever or malaise, which can indicate systemic involvement 3
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of a dental abscess typically involves a clinical examination and radiographic evaluation 2, 3. Treatment may involve:
- Removal of the source of inflammation or infection by local operative measures, such as extraction, incision and drainage, or endodontic treatment 2
- Systemic antibiotics, which may be recommended in situations where there is evidence of spreading infection or systemic involvement 2, 3
- Analgesics, which may be used to manage pain 2