Tooth Abscess (Flux) – Treatment

Bacteria entering the oral cavity are a major cause of many dental and gum diseases. The most common result of bacterial growth is tooth decay. However, cavities are not the only problem that can cause severe pain and discomfort. In this article, we will discuss what a tooth abscess (commonly referred to as a “flux”) is, how to recognise it, and what treatment options are available.

A tooth abscess is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the root tip, the part of the tooth embedded in the jawbone. In dentistry, a flux is defined as a localised accumulation resulting from damage to the surrounding tissues. Its centre is filled with pus — a thick fluid containing bacteria and the remnants of dead cells and tissues. A tooth abscess is usually extremely painful and requires urgent dental intervention.

The most common cause of an abscess is inflammation inside the mouth, either within the tooth itself or in the surrounding area. Bacteria that infect the pulp can travel from the root canal through the apical foramen into the tissues surrounding the tooth, Leading to the formation of pus-filled pockets—i.e., abscesses.

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.

A tooth abscess is a purulent inflammatory dental condition, usually caused by bacterial infection spreading to the tissues around the tooth root or into the gum. Treatment of an abscess (flux)—which is available at an affordable cost—consists of several steps and depends on the severity and underlying cause. Common treatment methods include:

1. Antibiotics: If the abscess has ruptured or is draining on its own, antibiotics may be prescribed to fight the infection and prevent it from spreading further.
2. Drainage: If the abscess does not drain naturally and pus has accumulated, a dentist may perform a drainage procedure (removal of the abscess from the gum) to clear the infection. This reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
3. Root canal treatment: If the abscess is caused by severe inflammation (pulpitis) or an infected tooth, root canal treatment may be necessary. This involves removing the infected pulp and cleaning the root canals to eliminate the source of the infection and support recovery.
4. Tooth extraction: In some cases, particularly when the tooth is extensively damaged or root canal treatment is not feasible, extraction may be required to eliminate the infection source effectively.
5. Follow-up care: After the primary treatment, your dentist may recommend additional procedures to restore or replace the affected tooth, if necessary.

Seek help from qualified professionals at the ‘Sa-Nata’ dental clinic network for a proper diagnosis and to develop an individual treatment plan for a tooth abscess. The earlier you seek treatment, the better the chances of managing and effectively treating the condition.