A dental abscess is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical attention. It is an infection that occurs when bacteria invade the tooth or the gums, resulting in a pocket of pus that can be very painful. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the body, causing serious health problems.
The most common symptom of a dental abscess is a severe toothache. This may be accompanied by fever, swelling, and tenderness in the jaw area. In some cases, a person may experience difficulty swallowing, bad breath, and a foul-tasting discharge coming from the affected tooth. If the infection is severe enough, the person may also experience nausea, vomiting, or a high fever.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A dentist or doctor will be able to diagnose the source of the infection and provide an appropriate treatment plan, which may include antibiotics, root canal therapy, or even extraction of the affected tooth. If the infection has spread to other areas of the body, additional treatments may be necessary.
In summary, a dental abscess is an emergency situation that requires prompt medical attention. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause serious health complications. If you experience any of the common symptoms of a dental abscess, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.