An abscess is a pathological cavity that contains pus caused by a mixed bacterial infection. Dental abscess is an acute purulent infection that develops in the apical part of the tooth. This condition is usually caused by bacteria originating from infected teeth both in the maxilla and in the mandible.
Symptoms of Tooth Abscess
Symptoms can occur ranging from the typical pain in heavy teeth, rocking teeth, fever, to difficulty chewing and opening the mouth. In addition, it is also accompanied by bad breath.
Causes and Risk Factors for Dental Abscesses
Bacteria that play a role in the process of forming this abscess are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans . Staphylococcus aureus in this process has an active enzyme called coagulase whose function is to deposit fibrin. Whereas Streptococcus mutans has 3 main enzymes that play a role in the spread of dental infections, namely streptokinase, streptodornase, and hyaluronidase.
Diagnosis of Dental Abscess
Aside from the history and symptoms, further tests carried out to diagnose include a panoramic X-ray for oral examination and a CT scan if indicated.
Prevention of Dental Abscesses
Prevention can be done routinely to control dental health, brush teeth regularly, especially before going to sleep, and immediately take treatment if there are cavities / broken teeth.
Management of Dental Abscesses
The first few treatment steps aim to reduce pain and continue with abscess drainage. Then also combined with oral antibiotic treatment in the form of metronidazole and cephalosporins as well as anti-inflammatory drugs such as NSAIDs to reduce pain while treating swelling of the gums.
When to see a doctor?
If you have cavities or there is pain in your teeth, get your teeth checked by a doctor. Proper handling can minimize the effects so that treatment can be done more quickly. Choose the right doctor at the hospital according to your needs here .
