How to Treat Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess can be a painful oral health condition that requires prompt attention. It occurs when a bacterial infection leads to a pocket of pus within a tooth or the surrounding gum tissue. Left untreated, a dental abscess can lead to complications such as tooth loss or even the spread of infection to other parts of the body. This blog will share the symptoms, types, and treatment options for dental abscesses.

Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

  • Severe, throbbing pain in the affected tooth or gum area.
  • Swelling of the face, jaw, or gums.
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
  • A foul taste in the mouth due to draining pus.
  • Difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth.
  • Fever or general malaise (feeling unwell).

Types of Dental Abscesses

There are different types of dental abscesses, each with its own specific treatment approach:

1. Periapical Abscess: This type affects the tip of the tooth’s root, typically caused by untreated cavities.

2. Periodontal Abscess: Found in the gums near the tooth root, often due to gum disease.

3. Gingival Abscess: Located solely in the gum tissue, often the result of a foreign object getting lodged in the gums.

Treatment Options for a Dental Abscess

Incision/ Drainage of the Abscess

The priority is to relieve pain and pressure by draining the abscess. This is done by making a small incision in the abscess to allow the pus to escape. Sometimes, a small rubber drain may be placed to keep the area open while the infection drains completely.

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal may be necessary if the abscess originates from a tooth infection (periapical abscess). This procedure involves removing the infected tissue inside the tooth, cleaning the root canals, and sealing the space to prevent further infection. Root canal therapy often saves the tooth and prevents the need for extraction.

Tooth Extraction

Extraction may be the best option if the tooth is severely damaged and cannot be saved through a root canal. After removing the tooth, the dentist will clean the site to ensure no infection remains.

Prescribing Antibiotics

In cases where the infection has spread, or there is a risk of it spreading, antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the remaining bacteria. These are typically used with other treatments like drainage or root canal therapy.

Pain Management

Pain and swelling management are vital parts of abscess treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, are often recommended to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Consult the dentist for professionally prescribed medications.

Conclusion

A dental abscess is a severe condition, but it can be treated successfully with timely and professional dental care. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of an abscess, don’t wait—visit us immediately. Early intervention is critical to preserving your oral health and preventing further complications. Our experts at Bravo! Dental are here to ensure you receive prompt; effective care tailored to your needs.

Feel free to contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment if you suspect you have a dental abscess.

7 Best Ways to Tackle Burning Mouth Syndrome


Have you ever had a nice cup of hot coffee and suddenly felt a surge of burning sensation running through your mouth? If yes, don’t worry; it is common, and you are not alone. It is called “Burning Mouth Syndrome” (BMS).
 

What is burning mouth syndrome? 

Burning Mouth Syndrome, or BMS, is a chronic condition that affects the mouth, tongue, or lips, causing a burning sensation, dryness, and a metallic taste. Burning Mouth Syndrome can be painful, irritating, and confusing. It can occur anywhere in the mouth or throat. BMS frequently appears out of nowhere. There are numerous causes and therapies available. However, with the right combination of diet, medication, and professional consultation, you can get to the bottom of BMS and ease the pain. In this blog, we will discuss several ways to manage the symptoms of BMS and improve quality of life. 

How can I relieve myself of the burning mouth syndrome? 

Sucking on ice chips or chewing gum may help alleviate your discomfort. Prescription medicine, such as clonazepam, whether topical or systemic, may also help with pain relief. Working with the doctor on prescribed medicine is an important step towards relief. 

7 best ways to help you relieve the burning or tingling sensations 

  1. Practice good oral hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene can help alleviate the symptoms of BMS. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to prevent infections and reduce inflammation.
  2. Avoid irritants: Certain foods and drinks can aggravate BMS symptoms. Avoid spicy or acidic foods, carbonated beverages, and alcohol. Also, avoid smoking and using tobacco products, as they can dry out your mouth and worsen the symptoms.
  3. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth moist and reduce the burning sensation. It’s recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
  4. Use saliva substitutes: Saliva substitutes are available over the counter and can help relieve the dry mouth symptoms of BMS. These products mimic the action of saliva and provide a lubricating effect in the mouth.
  5. Try relaxation techniques: Stress and anxiety can worsen BMS symptoms. Try relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to help manage stress and improve your overall well-being.
  6. Consider medication: In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage BMS symptoms. The dentist may prescribe medications, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or pain relievers, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
  7. Consult with the dentist: If you experience persistent burning sensations in your mouth, it’s essential to see a doctor or dentist. A dental expert can help diagnose the condition and suggest appropriate treatment options.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, BMS can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition to manage. However, following these ways can reduce your burning sensation and improve your quality of life. And don’t forget to take regular oral check-ups at Bravo! Dental care is important for you to find relief from burning mouth syndrome.

Sensitive Oral Tissues: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments 

Oral tissues include every part within the oral cavity, which majorly adds the lips and the inner layer of the cheeks. Mouth sores (stomatitis) are the most common issues the oral cavity faces. These sores can form on your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and the floor and roof of your mouth, among other soft tissues. You can also have mouth sores on your esophagus, which is the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach.

Causes:

Mouth sores can be caused by irritation from the following sources:

  • A sharp or damaged tooth, or dentures that don’t fit well
  • Biting your tongue, cheek, or lip
  • Experiencing tongue burns as a result of hot foods or beverages
  • Misplaced Braces
  • Tobacco chewing

Types of sores:

Cold sore: Cold sores are also known as fever blisters. They’re quite contagious. Tenderness, tingling, or burning are common symptoms before a sore emerges. Cold sores typically start as blisters and subsequently crust over. A herpes virus that causes this can live for years in your body. It only manifests as a mouth sore when something causes it, such as a fever, hormonal fluctuations, or a sunburn.

Canker sores: They aren’t highly contagious. They can resemble a pale or yellow ulcer with a crimson ring around it. You might have one or several of them. Women appear to get them at a higher rate than men. Canker sores have an unknown source. It could be caused by a weakened immune system, stress, or a deficiency in vitamins and minerals.

Symptoms:

Depending on the mouth sore you have, the symptoms will differ. The lesions will usually produce redness, discomfort, and inflammation. You may also encounter:

  • Feelings of tingling or burning.
  • Eating is a challenge (especially spicy or salty foods).
  • Blistering.
  • Bleeding.
  • Ulceration.
  • Dysphagia – a condition that affects people’s ability to swallow food.

Treatments:

A visual examination can diagnose the majority of mouth sores. If your disease is severe, your healthcare professional may prescribe a blood test or a biopsy. Based on how you have been affected, your dentist would treat you as follows,

Allergy: If an allergic reaction causes the problem, the doctor will figure out the allergy and how to get rid of it.

Infection: Depending on the type of infection, stomatitis may necessitate specific therapy and drugs.

Nutritional deficiency: A doctor can diagnose and treat dietary deficiencies using medicines or nutritional changes.

Topical therapies applied directly to the skin have been reported to help reduce discomfort and speed up the healing process. The following are examples of topical treatments:

Topical corticosteroids: These are often used as a rinse and are intended to relieve symptoms to eat, drink, and speak without pain or discomfort.

Topical antibiotics: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities are found in topical antibiotics, usually in a gel or a rinse.

Topical anesthetics: They are numbing drugs that patients can apply directly to sores for short pain relief. They are usually available via prescription.

Although most mouth sores are harmless, they can be rather uncomfortable. Fortunately, some therapies can help alleviate the pain. If you’re experiencing any strange symptoms or your mouth sores haven’t healed in three weeks, schedule an appointment with us today at Bravo Dental. Our experts can assist in excluding any significant health concerns and detecting any problems early on.

Does your mouth burn after you eat? What you must know

If your mouth burns after eating, you may have a condition called burning mouth syndrome (BMS). Several factors might cause the feeling. The tongue, gums, lips, inside of your cheeks, palate, or other regions of your mouth may be affected. The searing sensation can be intense, as if your mouth has been scalded.

The onset of burning mouth syndrome is generally rapid, although it can sometimes build over time. Unfortunately, the exact cause is frequently unknown. It is more common in women between 50 and 70, especially if they are going through menopause.

Burning Mouth Syndrome Symptoms

Though you have burning mouth syndrome, your mouth may actually feel as if it has just been recently exposed to hot coffee or soup. But each person’s experience is unique – Symptoms of burning mouth syndrome generally include:

  • Tongue numbness or tingling feeling
  • Having difficulty swallowing
  • Parched mouth
  • Throat irritation
  • Changes in flavor

Primary Causes:

Primary or idiopathic burning mouth syndrome occurs when no clinical or laboratory abnormalities may be found. Primary burning mouth syndrome has been linked to difficulties with taste and sensory nerves in the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Secondary Causes:

An underlying medical problem can sometimes induce burning mouth syndrome. It’s known as secondary burning mouth syndrome in these circumstances.

The following are some of the underlying issues that may be connected to secondary burning mouth syndrome:

  • Dry mouth caused by a variety of drugs, health issues, or cancer therapy side effects
  • Other oral illnesses such as a fungal infection inflammatory condition known as oral lichen planus
  • Food allergies, flavorings, other additives, scents, colors, or dental-work compounds
  • Habits such as tongue pushing, biting the tip of the tongue, and teeth grinding
  • Diabetes and thyroid problems
  • Using abrasive toothpaste, overusing mouthwashes, or drinking too many acidic drinks can cause excessive mouth irritation
  • Anxiety, depression, or stress are examples of psychological issues

Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome

The source of your pain, which may be treated with a tailored approach, determines how to treat BMS. If your mouth feels like it’s on fire, you should see your dentist right away.

The doctor may recommend one or more of the following therapies, depending on the reason for your burning mouth syndrome:

  • Amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline, for example, are medicines that aid alleviate nerve pain (Aventyl, Pamelor)
  • Capsaicin is a hot pepper-derived pain reliever
  • Low dosages of clonazepam (Klonopin)
  • Replacement of female hormones
  • Mouthwashes
  • Salivary supplemental products
  • Vitamin supplements
  • There are a few things you may do to aid with your symptoms as well:

Avoid acidic foods, such as tomatoes and orange and citrus juices

  • Avoid alcohol, particularly mouthwashes containing alcohol
  • Cinnamon and mint should be avoided
  • Spicy meals should be avoided
  • Tobacco should be avoided
  • Chew sugar-free gum (to increase saliva production)
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Yoga or hobbies might help you relax
  • Use a piece of crushed ice during oral discomfort

People with burning mouth syndrome suffer from a painful and frequently frustrating condition. If you’re experiencing any of these feelings, don’t ignore them. Come see us at Bravo Dental right away. We promise you quick and sure relief for any oral pain you may be experiencing.