Gum abscesses can be caused by a variety of factors, including a bacterial infection, trauma to the gum tissue, or poor oral hygiene. A gum abscess is a pocket of pus that forms when bacteria become trapped in the gums. Left untreated, a gum abscess can cause significant pain and lead to more serious conditions.
Treatment for a gum abscess typically involves draining the pus and cleaning the area to prevent the spread of infection. There are several treatments available to kill the bacteria that cause gum abscesses, including antibiotics and antiseptic mouthwashes.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria that cause gum abscesses. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics such as amoxicillin, metronidazole, or clindamycin to treat the infection. These antibiotics are taken orally and may be combined with other treatments, such as irrigation of the area with a saline solution.
Antiseptic Mouthwashes
Antiseptic mouthwashes are used to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation in the gums. Your dentist may prescribe an antiseptic mouthwash, such as chlorhexidine, to help reduce swelling and pain. It should be used twice daily for up to two weeks.
Irrigation with a Saline Solution
Irrigation with a saline solution is a common treatment for gum abscesses. A saline solution is a mixture of salt and water that can be used to flush out bacteria and debris from the infected area. Your dentist may irrigate the area with a saline solution to help reduce pain and swelling.
Surgery
In some cases, a gum abscess may require surgery to remove the pus and infected tissue. Surgery may be performed to create a drainage hole in the gum tissue or to remove the entire abscess. Surgery is typically the last resort for treating a gum abscess and is only used when other treatments have failed.
Gum abscesses can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but with proper treatment, they can be quickly and effectively treated. Antibiotics, antiseptic mouthwashes, irrigation with a saline solution, and in some cases, surgery, can all help to reduce pain and swelling and kill the bacteria that cause the infection.