by Aliyeus J

Created on: February 12, 2011

An abscessed tooth is the condition of an infection which generally forms at the root of the tooth. Most commonly, the condition is caused by poor oral hygiene that has resulted in either severe tooth decay, gingivitis and/or other gum disease. Trauma to the tooth, as in the case of a broken or chipped tooth, can  lead to the infection, as well.

The condition of an abscessed tooth occurs when the damage from trauma to a tooth, or poor oral hygiene forces an opening in the tooth’s enamel. Once this happens, the inner tooth is left exposed, bacteria gets trapped within, and infects the center (or pulp) of the tooth. The result, of course, is a very painful abscess, which will seem nearly unbearable.

The pain from an abscessed tooth is usually severe and continuous. It may feel like a throbbing pain or more like a sharp shooting pain. A fever may also be present, along with other symptoms such as, swelling of the gums and/or jaw, foul breath, painful chewing, and the teeth around the area will likely be sensitive to hot or cold extremes. Some sufferers report having a bitter taste in the mouth, and often an open, draining sore will be present on the side of the gum near the infected tooth.

There are things that can be done for some pain relief, but dental assistance from a dental facility should be sought out immediately. It isn’t always easy to get a dental appointment right away, but some dentist will treat patients by emergency, and drain the abscess for pain-relief. If an emergency visit is not an option, there may be a waiting list for patients to be seen in the event of a cancellation. So, be sure to check with the dental office, just in case. Also, some dentists will provide a prescription for medication to manage the pain, and help in fighting infection.

While you wait to see the dentist, do what you can to relieve pain. Following are some basic pain-relieving methods.

Use an Icepack

A common and perhaps obvious method of relieving some pain is to use an icepack. This will help keep swelling down, and restrict blood flow to the area of infection. The icepack should be placed on the face, near the abscess, and kept on for about 15-20 minutes at a time. This may be done as needed, according to pain level.

Take Over-the-counter Pain-relief Medicine

Medication containing ibuprofen, such as Motrin or Advil, can help to alleviate some of the pain associated with a toothache, or abscessed tooth.

Avoid Foods and Beverages With Hot or Cold Temperature

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