As bacteria multiply and inflammation sets in, the symptoms of an abscess become apparent rather quickly. Since the symptoms can escalate rapidly, it is important not to delay seeing a dentist and to start treatment as soon as possible. Typical symptoms of a dental abscess include:
- Throbbing or radiating pain around the affected tooth;
- Increased pain while eating or when touching/pressing the cheek near the abscess;
- Redness and swelling of the skin;
- High temperature (fever);
- General feeling of weakness or malaise;
- Difficulty opening the mouth widely.
Depending on the location and severity of symptoms, there are three types of dental abscesses:
- Periapical abscess
- Subperiosteal abscess
- Submucosal abscess
Inflammation is limited to the tooth pulp and tissues around the root tip. Symptoms include pain when biting, radiating facial or ear pain, high sensitivity to heat, and the sensation of the tooth being “pulled from the socket” or sitting too high. Tooth discolouration (darkening), minor loosening, general malaise, and fever are also possible.
If the periapical flux is not noticed and treatment is not started in time, it progresses to the next stage-Subperiosteal. It occurs when an untreated periapical abscess progresses and pus begins to destroy layers of the alveolar bone, eventually reaching the periosteum. The periosteum is a highly innervated outer layer of the bone, which results in intensified pain. Its eventual detachment further exacerbates discomfort. All symptoms of a periapical abscess are present, but more severe. Submucosal abscess – develops when the pus spreads beneath the mucosal lining. Symptoms include swelling of the gum near the affected tooth and swelling of surrounding tissues, including cheeks, lips, oral cavity, and under-eye area. As with other abscesses, patients often experience general weakness, fever, and intense pain. Sometimes, a tooth abscess can rupture on its own, Which may relieve pain but does not resolve the underlying issue.