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Can a Tooth Abscess Go Away on Its Own?

July 11, 2022 - toothbar - 0 comments Dentist opening patient's mouth showing a bleeding gum with a tooth abscess

Tooth abscesses do not go away on their own. It is imperative to visit a dentist for treatment if you have any of the symptoms of a tooth abscess. If you are in the Austin, Texas area, seek Austin preventative dentistry with Toothbar, the Austin Dental Spa.

What is a Tooth Abscess?

To understand this better, let’s look at what a tooth abscess is. When bacteria builds up either between the gum and teeth or inside the tooth (due to cavities), a pocket of puss can form; this is a tooth abscess.

Risks of a Tooth Abscess

The danger of an abscess is the risk of infection spreading to other parts of the body such as the neck, surrounding bones, and the head. An untreated or ruptured abscess can even create life-threatening conditions including infection spreading to the brain or heart, sepsis, or pneumonia.

Tooth Abscess Symptoms

One can have an abscess for months without symptoms. Considering the severity of potential consequences for an untreated abscess, regular dental visits and identifying the symptoms when they do present are both critical.

Symptoms include:

• Tooth sensitivity to cold and heat
• Fever
• Regular, throbbing toothache, sometimes radiating outward
• Facial swelling
• Regular pain when chewing
• Sensitive or swollen lymph nodes

If you experience a sudden unpleasant, salty fluid in your mouth along with relief, the abscess likely ruptured. The relief does not indicate the infection is gone; rather the infection has an increased opportunity to spread. If you experience difficulty breathing, swallowing, or a fever and swelling in the face, visit the emergency room immediately.

Prevention and Treatment of Tooth Abscess

Austin preventative dentistry surveys show 46% of people’s reason for not visiting a dentist in 2015 was having no reason to go or hadn’t thought of it.

For a medical condition that can start asymptomatic but can lead to other fatal health issues, preventative dental visits are more important than many realize, 10% of respondents had fear or apprehension of dental visits.

A dental spa, like the Toothbar, is an option for those needing a supportive and calming atmosphere to ease dental fears.

Treatment for a tooth abscess often includes antibiotics to treat the infection, but can also include drainage of the abscess, root surgery to remove infected tissue, and sometimes extraction of the affected tooth.

Given that many Texans have reported feeling limited from laughing, smiling, or talking due to oral problems, along with the potential expanded health issues stemming from untreated abscesses, make that dental appointment right away, for prevention or treatment.

If you’re among those who seek a less painful and more caring experience, visit the Toothbar in Austin, Texas.

As a dental spa, Toothbar aims to change the dental experience from one of anxiety and pain to one of relaxation and confidence-inspiring results. Call: 512-949-8202

Dr. Kimberley Barclay

Co-founder and owner Dr. Kimberley Barclay is actively involved in local and national dental societies, including the Capital Area Dental Society and Spear Education courses on cosmetic dentistry. She is also a member of the Seattle Study Club, one of the most advanced education groups for dental professionals.

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Our team is ready to book your appointment. The proper Dental Care can make the difference in years to come. We don't just improve the
aesthetics of your smile, we make sure your dental health is set for the long run.

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This content was fact-checked by Dr. Kimberley Barclay and Dr. Lauren Jacobsen following editorial guidelines. Dr. Kimberley Barclay is actively involved in local and national dental societies, including the Capital Area Dental Society and Spear Education courses on Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Lauren Jacobsen is an active member of the dental community and engages in further education and training through membership with a local chapter of the Seattle Study Club and Spear Education courses.

Schedule Your Visit Now

Our team is ready to book your appointment. The proper Dental Care can make the difference in years to come. We don't just improve the aesthetics of your smile, we make sure your dental health is set for the long run.

Schedule your visit now