Prescribe antibiotics. If the infection is limited to the abscessed area, you may not need antibiotics. But if the infection has spread to nearby teeth, your jaw or other areas, your dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics to stop it from spreading further.
Saltwater rinse
A saltwater rinse will kill off some of the bacteria in your mouth and irrigate your mouth. It can rinse some of the debris out of your mouth and if you have an abscess it can help break up the pus surrounding the tooth. You can use regular table salt and warm tap water to make a basic saltwater rinse.
Rinsing with salt water creates a saline mixture to safely begin sterilizing the infection. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of table salt with 1/2 cup of warm tap water. Swish in your mouth for a few minutes before spitting. Repeat every few hours if needed.
Not only does salt help to reduce bacteria, but rinsing with warm salt water can also remove debris from your mouth, break up pus around the tooth, and help ensure proper wound healing. To create a saltwater rinse for a tooth infection, simply mix a half teaspoon of salt with a half cup of warm water.
If you have signs and symptoms of a tooth infection, it is important to call your dentist as soon as possible. Dentists can help in a few ways, but remember that this infection will not go away alone- treatment is necessary.
Tooth infections that have traveled to the jawbone can lead to severe dental abscesses and jawbone infections. Osteomyelitis in the jaw causes persistent pain, jaw stiffness, swelling, and tenderness. Additionally, bacterial infections of the teeth can also spread to the bloodstream and cause sepsis.
Persistent headaches, jaw aches, or earaches. Noticeable and uncomfortable facial swelling. Dizziness. Chills or high fever.
Left untreated, a tooth abscess will eventually spread to the surrounding tissues and beyond, wreaking havoc on your oral and overall health. It can take weeks or months for the infection to spread — and it's impossible to know exactly how long that will take.
Dental Abscess Dangers
If you experience any dental abscess symptoms, here are some things not to do: Don't delay: See a dental professional as soon as possible. If treated promptly you may be able to avoid having the infected tooth removed. Don't stop your oral hygiene routine: Continue to brush and floss.
The most common antibiotics for a tooth infection include amoxicillin, penicillin, azithromycin, clindamycin, cephalexin, and metronidazole. Antibiotics have to be prescribed by a healthcare provider, such as a dentist. You may be able to get a prescription more quickly via a telehealth visit.
While all types of fluoride help to make tooth enamel stronger and resistant to acid attacks, stannous fluoride also kills bacteria that cause cavities and gingivitis. Wash it away. Brushing and flossing can be accompanied by the use of a mouthwash to keep your mouth bacteria in check.
A dental abscess is a build-up of pus in the teeth or gums caused by an infection. It needs urgent treatment by a dentist. A dental abscess will not go away on its own.
Yes, applying a cotton ball soaked in regular Listerine on an infected tooth will relieve tooth pain. Listerine is about 27% alcohol, and alcohol numbs nerve endings.
It is rare for tooth infections to spread to other parts of the body. If left untreated, dental infections usually take weeks or months to spread. Below are medical conditions that an untreated tooth abscess may lead to: Osteomyelitis — an infection of the bone surrounding your infected tooth.
This is called osteomyelitis and is signified with pain in the jaw and face, facial swelling, and fever. Antibiotics can be used to resolve the infection but if you do not receive treatment in a timely manner, part of the jaw bone can actually begin to die.
It also may progress into septicemia, a more serious blood infection that is always accompanied by symptoms such as chills, high fever, rapid heartbeat, severe nausea, vomiting and confusion.
Also, avoid acidic beverages, sports drinks, and fizzy sodas. You should also stay away from salty and spicy foods. They may irritate your gums near the infected tooth. Although fruits and vegetables are great for teeth, avoid taking the hard-to-chew ones.
Swish salt water or peroxide – These rinses can relieve inflammation. Use an over-the-counter anesthetic – Stop by the pharmacy for a gel that you can apply straight to the teeth, or use clove oil for an all-natural remedy.
Salt creates an alkaline environment that makes it challenging for bacteria to continue surviving. By killing the bacteria, it provides temporary pain relief around the area of infection. Since saltwater does not irritate your gums or mucus membranes, it remains the best bet when it comes to home remedies.