Know Everything About Abscess After Tooth Extraction
Extractions of teeth are often required to solve different dental problems, but abscesses can complicate the healing process. An abscess after tooth extraction is a painful condition and dealing with it after tooth extraction can be daunting. However, knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference.
This article will help you know the common symptoms of an abscess, explain why these occur, and will also talk about their symptoms and treatment. You can better manage your recovery and maintain your dental health with confidence by gaining this knowledge.
Causes Of Gum Boil After Tooth Extraction
While a gum boil or abscess is uncommon after a tooth extraction. Gum boil after tooth extraction can happen because of the following two main reasons:
Incomplete Removal of Infected Tissue:
Sometimes, during the extraction process, small fragments of infected tooth or root can remain lodged in the socket. These fragments can harbor bacteria and trigger an abscess formation.
Poor Oral Hygiene After Extraction:
Following proper post-operative care instructions from your dentist is a must. Food particles and bacteria can accumulate if you don’t clean the extraction site diligently. This increases the risk of infection and leads to a gum boil after tooth extraction.
Symptoms Of Infected Tooth Post Extraction
Here are the main symptoms of an infected tooth after extraction:
Increased Pain and Throbbing:
Normal post-extraction soreness should subside within a few days. Worsening pain or a throbbing sensation can indicate an infection.
Swelling and Redness:
Mild swelling around the extraction site is expected. However, significant swelling or redness extending to the cheek or jaw could be a sign of infection.
Fever:
A low-grade fever is uncommon after a simple extraction. However, a fever exceeding 38°C can indicate infection.
Pus Drainage:
Pus coming from the extraction site is a strong indicator of infection.
Halitosis:
An unpleasant odor can be a sign of infection in the mouth.
Can An Abscessed Tooth Be Extracted?
Yes, tooth extraction is a common treatment for abscessed teeth. Here are the reasons:
Eliminates the Source:
The infected tooth is the root cause of the abscess. Removing it eliminates the source of infection and allows the body to heal.
Reduces Pain and Swelling:
Extracting the tooth typically leads to a significant reduction in pain and swelling associated with the abscess.
Prevents Complications:
Leaving an abscessed tooth untreated can lead to serious complications like bone infection or even the spread of infection to other parts of the body.
What Happens To the Abscess After Tooth Extraction?
The following can be the reasons for an abscess after tooth extraction:
Drainage and Healing:
Removing the infected tooth allows the abscess to drain naturally. Your body’s immune system then works to fight off remaining bacteria and promote healing of the extraction site.
Disappearance of the Bump:
The visible swelling or bump caused by the abscess should gradually shrink and disappear over time. Depending on the size and severity of the abscess, this process can take a few days to several weeks.
Treatment For Infection After Tooth Extraction
You should get professional help from your dentist immediately if you develop an infection after a tooth extraction. Here are the steps involved in infection after tooth extraction treatment:
Diagnosis:
Your dentist will examine the area, take X-rays if needed, and confirm the presence of an infection.
Antibiotics:
They will likely prescribe antibiotics to combat the infection.
Drainage:
In some cases, your dentist might need to drain the abscess to remove pus and promote healing. Pain relievers may be prescribed to manage discomfort.
How To Prevent Bump On Gum After Tooth Extraction
Follow Post-operative Instructions:
Do follow your dentist’s instructions regarding cleaning the extraction site and pain management.
Avoid Irritants:
Avoid smoking, hot beverages, and harsh foods that can irritate the extraction site and slow healing.
Pain Management:
Take prescribed pain medication as directed to manage discomfort and prevent the need to poke or prod the extraction site, which can introduce bacteria.
Schedule Follow-up Appointment:
Attend your follow-up appointment with your dentist so they can monitor healing and address any concerns.
FAQs
Will Abscess Go Away After Tooth Extraction?
Yes, extracting the abscessed tooth removes the source of infection. This allows your body to heal and the abscess to drain naturally.
Does It Hurt To Get An Abscessed Tooth Pulled?
Your dentist will use anesthesia to numb the area before tooth extraction, minimizing discomfort. You might feel some pressure during the procedure, but pain is uncommon.
Should I Be Concerned About A Lump In The Gum After Tooth Extraction?
A small lump might be normal swelling, but a large, red, or painful lump could be a sign of infection. If you experience increased pain, fever, or pus drainage, see your dentist right away.
Can An Abscessed Gum After Tooth Extraction Heal On Its Own?
No. An abscessed gum after extraction requires professional treatment.
How Is An Abscess In The Tooth Extraction Site Diagnosed?
Your dentist will examine the area, take X-rays if needed, and ask about your symptoms to diagnose an abscess after tooth extraction.
