An untreated cavity can sometimes lead to cavities accessing the pulp and other sensitive structures in a tooth. As this happens, tooth decay can compromise the tooth and even cause a dangerous abscess to form in your gums. An abscess is created when bacteria forms pus around your gumline.
Common symptoms include a toothache and pain and pressure in the gums. Please do not delay in seeking treatment at Rai Family Dentistry in Stafford, VA. With early diagnosis, we might be able to treat a minor abscess with a root canal and prescription antibiotics. In a more serious case, Dr. Rai might advocate extracting the tooth and excising the abscess. This will avert the bacteria from crossing over to your bloodstream.
Dr. Rai will likely prescribe a course of antibiotics and pain management medication to help eliminate any lingering infection and help maintain your comfort while your gums heal. The incision site will bleed a little for a few days after the extraction. You can lightly bite down on a piece of sterile gauze. Once the bleeding stops, you can rinse your mouth with lukewarm saltwater.
It’s best to avoid chewing food on that side of your mouth while your gums are healing. You also don’t want to drink through a straw as the suction might pull a blood clot loose. Once your gums have healed completely, Dr. Rai will help you recognize your dental restoration options. This often calls for installing a dental implant and dental crown into the void or fitting you for a standard dental bridge.
If you are in the Stafford, VA, area and you have a toothache or severely decayed tooth, do not delay in calling 540-657-0867 to have it diagnosed and treated at Rai Family Dentistry.