Development Stages of an Abscess Tooth
An abscessed tooth does not happen overnight it follows a distinct process. There are different types of abscesses but none of them are welcome by the victim.
A periapical abscess results from a localized but chronic infection at the tooth root’s apex, or tip. Periapical abscesses are the most common dental abscesses found in children. In a periapical abscess, dental caries erode the protective layers of the tooth which includes the enamel and dentin, allowing bacteria to attack the pulp, or center of the tooth, producing pulpitis. Pulpitis can then advance to necrosis and a bacterial invasion of the alveolar bone, causing an abscess.
Periodontal abscess involves the tooth’s supporting structures including periodontal ligaments and alveolar bone. Periodontal abscesses are the most common dental abscesses found in adults but can be found in children in the event of impaction of a foreign body in the gum.
Pericoronitis is used to describe the infection of the gum overlaying a partially erupted third molar, also known as an impacted wisdom tooth. These abscesses are common in adults because space in the mouth is limited and there is often no room for a third molar to fully erupt and therefore it becomes impacted or jammed underneath the gum.
Good oral hygiene can prevent all types of abscesses. Proper and regular brushing of teeth and flossing, as well as proper rinsing can help avoid painful abscesses. Good oral hygiene is important to maintain healthy teeth and gums, and sound nutritional habits are also greatly beneficial in such endeavors.
OraMD can help with overall oral hygiene, and thus help prevent gum disease and abscesses. OraMD products are 100% pure essential oils of peppermint, spearmint and almond that are highly effective dental care ingredients for total gum and teeth health, as well as overall dental hygiene.
