As far as extractions are concerned, the main reason is a gum or tooth infection. A dental or tooth abscess is an accumulation of pus inside the gum or teeth like a pocket because of bacteria. The human body has an innate system that combats infection with the help of white blood cells. What happens to the abscess after tooth extraction? Go through this blog for your answer.
Let’s have a quick review of what an abscess is, reasons for its growth, complications that tag along, and possible treatment plans.
What Is An Abscess?
An abscess, or simply pus, is a dense fluid that contains bacteria, dead cells, and tissues. It shows up in many colors depending on the infection site.
The human body releases a matter called neutrophils that engulfs the bacteria and then gets naturally metabolized, and these dead bodies constitute the maximum amount of pus.
Abscess Types
A dental abscess is divided into 2 categories according to the growth site. One builds up on the teeth, also known as a periapical abscess, while the other appears on gums, called periodontal abscess.
What Happens To The Abscess After Tooth Extraction?
Infection and abscess formation are two main reasons a dentist calls for a tooth extraction. The dentist will first prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the infection before the tooth extraction process occurs; this part is essential for complete healing and fast recovery.
However, you may develop an abscess or an infection after getting the tooth extracted. This happens because of the availability of a new site for the bacteria, and because sterilization with mouthwash is not allowed for the next 24 – 48 hours, the bacteria has enough time to cause damage.
The first sign which abscess tooth or gum formation shows after having a tooth extraction is bleeding out within 48 hours. When this happens, seek a dentists’ help immediately. He will prescribe antibiotics or any other treatment option according to the level of damage.
Mostly, dental experts prescribe antibiotics course before any tooth extraction, even if the dental abscess is not there. This is a protocol to kill maximum bacteria left so that the anesthesia is proper and in and out is smooth. The reason is that excess anesthesia is needed in germ presence.
Infection after Tooth Extraction – Symptoms
- Jaw pain
- Gum tenderness
- Fever
- Swollen jaw and gums
- Fatigue
- Puffed up neck glands
- Increased teeth sensitivity
- Throbbing pain in the jaw
- Halitosis
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Chronic pain after the use of painkillers
Complications Related To Abscess Formation
Abscess formation is a threatening complication after the tooth extraction as it progresses into sepsis if not treated on time.
Sepsis is a condition in which the infection-causing bacteria detaches from its origin and travels on to other parts of the body, infecting them via blood circulation. Consequently, causing the organs to shut down.
Treating a Dental Abscess
- Cut the area and drain out the abscess.
- Root canal
- Dental extraction
- Antibiotic treatment
Contact Your Dentist
If you observe any signs or symptoms mentioned above with shortness of breath, swallowing troubles, pus, or blood oozing out, immediately call your dentist. Or you can reach out to us at Katy Cypress Oral Surgery and Implant Center for aid. Call now at 281 667 0607 for an appointment or further queries.