Dr. Shashidhar S.

Dental abscess is characterized by pus formation in the teeth or the gums. This infection may occur either in the gums or the tip of the tooth. It usually occurs due to a bacterial infection which may enter the mouth through food, thus causing accumulation of plaque. If the plaque is not removed by following proper dental hygiene, then it may result in abscess.

The various factors that increase your chances of getting affected by dental abscess are a sugar rich diet and poor oral hygiene. You should brush your teeth to prevent symptoms of dental abscess. A diet that has too much sugar may lead to cavities that increases your risk of dental abscess.

Dental abscess may be classified into three types: 

1. Periodontal abscess: This type of abscess occurs in the bone structures in the teeth

2. Gingival abscess: This type of abscess occurs in the gums

3. Periapical abscess: Periapical abscess occurs in the soft areas of the tooth

Causes:

Symptoms
The symptoms of dental abscess are: 

1. The teeth may become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures

2. Pain during chewing food

3. A persistent pain in the jaw that radiates to the ear

4. You may experience a swelling in the face and the neck

5. Tenderness in the lymph nodes in the neck

6. You may experience symptoms of fever

7. Presence of foul smelling fluid in your mouth
   If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a dentist.