Prevention Education for Dental Abscess
Regular oral hygiene practices and prompt treatment of dental issues are the most effective ways to prevent dental abscesses and their potentially life-threatening complications. 1
Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
Brushing
- Brush teeth twice daily (after meals and at bedtime) using the Bass or modified Bass method
- Use a soft toothbrush or swab to avoid gum damage
- Clean with a mild fluoride-containing, non-foaming toothpaste
- Replace your toothbrush every month
- Rinse the brush thoroughly after use and store upright 1
Interdental Cleaning
- Clean between teeth once daily using appropriate tools (floss, toothpick, or interdental brushes)
- Consult with a dental hygienist/dentist about the most appropriate interdental cleaner for your needs
- If you're not accustomed to interdental cleaning, start gradually to avoid breaking the epithelial barrier 1
Mouth Rinsing
- Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash upon awakening and at least four times daily after brushing
- Use approximately 15 ml mouthwash for about 1 minute
- Gargle and spit out
- Avoid eating and drinking for 30 minutes after rinsing 1
Regular Dental Check-ups
- Schedule dental visits every 6 months for professional cleaning and examination 1
- Have your dental team eliminate potential sources of trauma (ill-fitting prostheses, fractured teeth)
- Consider sealing pits and fissures with flowable resin composite on both temporary and permanent teeth 1
Denture Care
- Remove dentures before performing oral care
- Brush dentures with toothpaste and rinse with water
- Clean the gums after removing dentures
- If hospitalized, soak dentures for 10 minutes in an antimicrobial solution (e.g., chlorhexidine 0.2%) before reinserting 1
Daily Oral Inspection
- Inspect your oral mucosa daily for signs of problems
- Look for:
- Color changes
- Swelling
- Fistulas (small openings in the gum)
- Pain or tenderness
- Abscesses or cellulitis 1
Dietary Considerations
Avoid:
- Excessive sugar consumption which promotes bacterial growth
- Frequent snacking between meals
- Acidic foods and beverages that can erode enamel 2
Recommended:
- Drink ample water to keep the mouth moist
- Choose sugar-free options when possible 1
Avoid Harmful Habits
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Foods that may irritate oral tissues (tomatoes, citrus fruits, hot/spicy foods) 1
Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Dental Care
- Persistent toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling in the face or cheek
- Tender, swollen lymph nodes under the jaw
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing 3
Understanding Dental Abscesses
Dental abscesses are polymicrobial infections, typically involving both anaerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria. They can lead to serious complications if left untreated, including spread to other parts of the body through contiguous anatomic cavities or hematogenous spread 3, 4.
Special Considerations
For Patients with Dentures
- Ensure proper fit of dentures to avoid tissue trauma
- Remove dentures at night
- Clean dentures thoroughly daily 1
For Patients with Chronic Conditions
- Maintain optimal control of conditions like diabetes that can affect oral health
- Inform your dentist about all medications and medical conditions 1
For Healthcare Providers
- Follow proper infection control practices to prevent cross-contamination
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment during dental procedures
- Properly sterilize all instruments between patients 1, 5
Remember that prevention is always better than treatment. Maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing dental issues promptly can help avoid the pain, expense, and potential complications associated with dental abscesses.