A tooth abscess is a bacterial infection within the tooth that can cause intense toothache, fever and swelling.
There are two common types of oral abscess: A gum abscess (also called a periodontal abscess) is usually caused by an infection in the space between the tooth and gum. The condition may occur after food gets trapped between the gum and tooth.
A periapical abscess usually occurs as a result of untreated tooth decay, injury or prior dental work.
In some cases, if a tooth abscess is left untreated, it can cause serious complications such as the spread of infection and even tooth loss. Therefore, it is important to receive prompt treatment for the dental abscess to prevent further damage and reduce the risk of tooth loss or other potential issues.
10 Home Remedies For Tooth Abscesses
Tooth abscesses should be treated by the dentist. However, some home remedies can relieve the pain and discomfort of the infection. Here are a few home remedies options that can help you before you get your medical treatment:
Saltwater Rinse
A saltwater rinse can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by dental abscesses. To make a saltwater rinse, mix one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit out the solution and repeat it twice a day after meals.
Cold Compress
Applying cold compresses to the outside of your face can help relieve toothache. Place a cold compress on the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, several times a day, or until the pain subsides.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a mild antiseptic that can help reduce toothache caused by tooth abscesses.
Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with warm water to form a paste and apply it directly to the affected tooth.
Leave it on for several minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Repeat a few times a day until the pain subsides.
Oregano-essential oil
Oregano-essential oil is a natural antiseptic and pain reliever that can help reduce toothache and inflammation.
Dilute one or two drops of oregano essential oil in warm water, and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat this every few hours as needed until the toothache subsides.
To make fenugreek tea, steep one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes before straining and drinking the liquid. Drink the tea twice a day until the toothache has gone away.
Clove essential oil
Clove essential oil is known to help reduce toothache and relieve tooth abscesses.
Apply one or two drops of clove essential oil to the affected tooth, then rinse your mouth with warm water after several minutes. Repeat this twice a day until the toothache has gone away.
Thyme essential oil
Thyme essential oil is another natural remedy that can help reduce toothache and inflammation caused by tooth abscesses.
Dilute one or two drops of thyme essential oil in some warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting out the solution. Repeat this twice a day until the toothache subsides.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant that can help minimise tooth abscesses.
Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with three parts water and swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Do this twice a day until the toothache has gone away.
Oil pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy that has been used to treat toothache and other dental issues such as tooth abscesses.
Put some cold-pressed, organic oil (such as coconut or sesame) in your mouth and swish it around for 15 minutes before spitting it out.
Rinse your mouth with warm water afterwards and repeat two to three times a week until the toothache has gone away.
Garlic
Garlic has natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties that can help reduce tooth abscesses. Crush a garlic clove and apply it directly to the affected tooth and leave it on for several minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water. Do this twice a day until the toothache has gone away.
Additionally, following proper oral hygiene habits is essential when dealing with tooth abscesses. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to help prevent toothache.
These home remedies are not meant to replace medical treatment and should be used only as an interim measure until you can visit your dentist for professional care. Suppose you don’t get your abscessed tooth treated. In that case, this can lead to serious complications if left untreated, so be sure to get prompt medical attention if you experience any toothache or swelling in your mouth.
Tooth Abscesses Medical Treatment
Tooth abscesses are serious infections that could spread to other parts of your mouth and even reach parts of your face and eyes. The purpose of this treatment is to remove the infection and prevent further damage to the tooth.
Antibiotics
Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection. This treatment usually consists of a course of oral antibiotics taken for a few days, depending on the severity of the infection.
Root canal treatment
If the infection has caused significant damage to your tooth, a root canal may be necessary. This involves hollowing out the infected part of the tooth and replacing it with a filling material.
Surgery
In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the infected pulp from inside the tooth. After this, a crown or other restoration will be placed over your tooth to restore its function and appearance.
Extraction
In some cases, your dentist may recommend extraction as a treatment option.
Tooth extraction involves removing the abscessed tooth and filling the space with an artificial replacement such as a dental implant or bridge. Tooth extraction is generally only recommended when other treatments have failed or if there is significant damage to the affected tooth. Read more about the dental implant procedure.
Tooth Abscess Prevention
Tooth abscesses can recur, so proper tooth care and regular dental check-ups are important to prevent further infection. Regular brushing and flossing can help remove bacteria from the mouth and reduce the risk of tooth abscesses. Limit sugary foods and drinks. Sweets and sodas lead to cavities, which can cause an abscess. If you experience any pain or swelling in your mouth, be sure to seek prompt medical attention.
It is important to get professional dental treatment as soon as possible, to help reduce the risk of tooth abscesses and ensure that your dental health is taken care of properly. Tooth abscess treatment should always be provided by a qualified dentist in order to get the best possible outcome.
Do you suspect you may have a tooth abscess or other dental issue that needs medical attention? Contact us on (07) 5655 7688 at Southport Park Family Dental to schedule an appointment. Our friendly dentist will diagnose your dental problem and provide the appropriate treatment.
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