A dental abscess is a condition that, despite being commonly seen in dental offices, may be unknown to many.
1. A periapical abscess originates on the inside of the tooth and can extend to the bone. 2. A periodontal abscess, on the other hand, is formed in the supporting tissues of the teeth.
Common symptoms include severe, stabbing pain in the affected tooth, which may radiate to the ear, jaw, or neck.
Untreated cavities, dental trauma, periodontal disease, and poor oral hygiene are the main risk factors for developing a dental abscess, as they allow plaque to accumulate and cause cavities and gum disease.
The causes include untreated dental caries, cracks in the teeth that allow bacteria to enter, periodontitis, and the presence of foreign bodies in the gums.