An "abscess" is a bacterial infection somewhere is the body. An "Abscessed Tooth" is one that has an infection in or around the tooth. When it is in the gums around the tooth, it is called a "periodontal abscess." When the infection is inside the tooth, it is called a "dental abscess." When it is in the bone at the tip of the root, it is called a "periapical abscess." A root fracture can also cause a dental infection.
Symptoms:
A periodontal abscess will often have puss exuding from the gums. If the puss is not apparent, it sometimes will come out after the gums have been probed. Sometimes the abscess will drain from a fistula. This is a swelling that pops like a pimple on your gums. When the fistula is present, it means that there is an infection somewhere in the mouth. The positive aspect of a fistula is that it acts as a "safety valve" for the puss to drain from the abscess. When there is no fistula, a periodontal abscess be painful and cause the tooth to become mobile. This means the tooth moves in the socket.
A dental abscess is an infection inside the pulp of the tooth. This can be very painful. A root canal procedure will alleviate the pain and get rid of the infection in the tooth.
A periapical abscess is an infection that spreads from the inside of the tooth to the area around the root tip. This is often the most painful dental infection. If a fistula forms as a result of the infection, the pain will be decreased. A root canal procedure is necessary to stop the infection and save the tooth.
If you or a family member believe that you have an abcessed tooth and are looking for a dentist in Huntington Beach, CA please feel free to call us at 714-847-9900 to schedule an appointment today.