You could be having a relaxing evening after work or just spending time with your family on the weekend and feel a sharp pain in your mouth.  If you have some history with dental problems, like infections in the gums, teeth or even cavities, this paid could be a dental abscess. AZ Dentist Near Me Queen Creek

There are 2 types of dental abscess: A tooth abscess, which affects the root of the tooth and gum abscess, which affects the gums.  Gum abscess usually occurs in severe cases of periodontal disease, the gums have pulled away from the teeth and pockets have formed.  #smilewithconfidence Either type of abscess consists of small pockets that fill with bacterial pus.  When you are treated the right way, you can recover from either type and regain control of your oral health. AZ Dentist Near Me Queen Creek

Tooth decay and periodontal infections can be hard to detect in the beginning.  However, it’s pretty easy to tell when an abscess form.  The biggest symptom will be intense pain. #martindental  The pain is described as continuous, sharp and severe enough to be disruptive.  You can experience trouble chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold items and even swollen lymph nodes.  Sometimes you can feel the abscess in your mouth.  With periodontal abscesses, a lesion will form in the affected area.  Sometimes a small bump can also form on the gum around the tooth abscess. 

So, what do you do?  Call your dentist right away if you suspect or discover either type of dental abscess.  If you have a couple hours to wait until your appointment, swish with salt water to help ease the pain. Your dentist may even ask you to take an over-the-counter pain medication.