What is a Tooth or Gum Abscess and How Does it Form?
In general, an abscess is a collection of pus that can develop anywhere in the body, varying in size and severity. Abscesses that occur in the mouth are generally referred to as "oral abscesses". Specifically, abscesses that develop between the teeth and gum tissue or in the gum tissue itself are referred to as “periodontal or gingival abscesses” respectively.

In most cases, gingival or periodontal abscesses are painful and require immediate medical attention. When the gum tissue proliferates with bad bacteria, a gingival abscess occurs, while when the tissue between the gum and tooth develops a bacterial infection, a periodontal abscess is formed. In both cases, the immune system is activated, and white blood cells in the body are rushed to the site to help control the infection, thus causing swelling.

Causes
Gingival or periodontal abscesses are most commonly caused by a non-treated bacterial infection, which is often a result of poor dental hygiene, injury, and/or non-compliance with dental recommendations or treatment.

Plaque build-up is one of the main causes of dental bacterial overgrowth. Plaque develops as a result of poor oral hygiene, such as with lack of brushing and/or flossing. A condition called periodontitis is basically an inflammatory process that affects the gums when there is a build-up of plaque underneath the gums, often leading to abscess formation if left untreated.

Who is at Risk of Developing an Oral Abscess?
• Patients with poor oral hygiene as a result of lack of self-care, such as tooth brushing and flossing, are at higher risk of developing dental problems, including oral abscesses.
• Patients with compromised immune systems are more prone to developing infections in general as their bodies are incapable of fighting infections properly, and therefore are at higher risk of developing oral abscesses.
• Patients who adopt a poor diet are also at risk of developing oral abscesses as their diet often contains food rich in sugars and acids.
• Patients with high stress levels are often at high risk of developing oral abscesses because of the adverse effects that stress has on the body, including increased cortisol levels, decreased immune response, lack of sleep, and poor diet choices.
• Patients who smoke and/or drink alcohol are also at increased risk of developing oral abscesses as these habits often lead to an unhealthy physical state.
• Patients with diabetes are at higher risk of developing complications of oral abscesses given their weakened healing capabilities.
• Other conditions that can place patients at a higher risk of developing oral abscesses include obesity, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, hepatitis C, Sjogren's disorder, and hormonal imbalances. Patients who take medications that affect saliva production are also at increased risk.

Symptoms
Most commonly, pain and swelling are the main symptoms of oral abscesses. Patients often describe their pain as "throbbing" and is often exacerbated by chewing. Besides pain, patients often notice a bump and asymmetry in their face, which prompts them to seek an evaluation. Other symptoms can be manifested as tooth sensitivity, tenderness, loose tooth, redness, bad breath or halitosis, pus discharge, bad taste in mouth, bleeding gums, and fever.

Possible Complications
If left untreated, any oral abscess can spread deeper into the teeth and/or bones and can affect the face and even the whole body. If the infection is advanced and reaches the blood stream, it can lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis.

What Else Should I Know About a Tooth or Gum Abscess?
Practicing good oral hygiene is key in preventing oral abscesses from forming. Patients can achieve good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly to reduce plaque formation. It is prudent that patients also follow up with their dentist for regular dental cleanings and check-ups as preventative measures.

Following a healthy diet can also promote good oral hygiene. Avoidance of sugar and acidic food and limiting snacks in between meals are also crucial lifestyle habits. Patients with dry mouth should stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and water. Chewing sugarless gum can help increase saliva, and in refractory cases, medications are available and can be used to support saliva production.

If you reside in Ottawa and are in need of immediate dental care, you can rest assured that the various dental services provided at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre, located in South Ottawa, are optimal and backed by excellent expertise. To schedule an appointment, contact us today!