The difference between a gum abscess and a tooth abscess is actually quite small. An abscess, in general, is a condition many people experience, often with severe pain, but without being able to tell exactly what type it is.
Here are the key points that explain the difference between a gum abscess and a tooth abscess.
1. Gum Abscess
A gum abscess usually develops when oral hygiene is neglected. Plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, allowing bacteria and debris to accumulate. This leads to inflammation, formation of periodontal pockets, and bone loss in that area, eventually resulting in a gum (periodontal) abscess.
The dentist will open and drain the abscess, clean the area, remove tartar, and treat the gums. They will also prescribe antibiotics as needed, depending on the patient’s general condition.
2. Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess (periapical abscess) forms after progressive tooth decay reaches and infects the dental pulp (the nerve and blood vessels inside the tooth). The pulp becomes inflamed, then dies and decomposes, allowing bacteria to spread down to the root tip and form an abscess at the end of the root. If left untreated, this abscess can develop into a cyst and cause significant complications.
Treatment usually involves opening the tooth, cleaning out the infected pulp, draining and drying the abscess, prescribing antibiotics if indicated, and then completing root canal treatment to seal the tooth and resolve the abscess.
3. The Difference Between a Gum Abscess and a Tooth Abscess
A gum abscess is a localized pocket of infected tissue filled with pus. It can occur in the gum itself, often between the gum and the tooth surface, and is typically called a “periodontal abscess.”
A tooth abscess, on the other hand, arises when bacteria infect the dental pulp due to deep decay or trauma. The nerve dies, bacteria spread through the root canal, and the abscess is usually located at the tip of the tooth root (periapical abscess).
4. What Causes a Gum Abscess?
Key causes of a gum abscess include:
- Inadequate brushing and poor oral hygiene, leading to plaque and tartar buildup.
- Trauma or fracture of a tooth that leaves the pulp exposed. If not treated promptly by a dentist, this can lead to abscess formation.
- Pregnancy, during which hormonal changes can make the gums more vulnerable to infection and abscesses.
- Side effects of certain medications or painkillers, which may predispose some patients to gum infections and abscesses.
5. Symptoms of a Gum Abscess
In the context of “the difference between a gum abscess and a tooth abscess,” these are some of the most common symptoms of a gum abscess:
- Increased sensitivity of the affected tooth when eating or drinking hot (and sometimes cold) foods and beverages.
- Swelling in the cheek or face on the side of the abscess.
- Severe pain in the tooth when biting down or chewing.
- Swollen lymph nodes due to the ongoing infection.
- Fever and elevated body temperature caused by the bacterial infection.
- A very bad taste and foul odor in the mouth if the abscess ruptures and pus drains into the oral cavity.
6. Treatment of a Tooth Abscess
The main principle in treating a gum or tooth abscess is to visit a dentist, who can provide the appropriate clinical treatment. This may include treating the affected tooth with root canal therapy, and in some cases extracting the tooth if it cannot be saved. The dentist will also clean the gums, remove calculus, and may prescribe medication for home use based on the patient’s condition.
Common treatment measures recommended in the dental office and at home include:
- Brushing teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste to minimize bacterial buildup on teeth and gums.
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash every 8 hours (or as directed) to reduce oral bacteria.
- Rinsing with warm salt water to help soothe the area and support healing.
- Taking antibiotics to control bacterial infection and anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed by the dentist, taking into account the patient’s age and health.
- Using medications effective against anaerobic bacteria (when prescribed) to help control foul odor and deep-seated infection.
- Using pain relievers and fever reducers as directed by the dentist to manage pain and temperature.
7. The Danger of Ignoring an Abscess, Especially in Children
Untreated tooth decay is the main cause of pulp death, subsequent putrefaction, and abscess formation.
In children, abscesses are often more serious than in adults because of generally poorer oral hygiene at a young age. Neglecting daily cleaning allows infection to spread from one decayed tooth to neighboring teeth.
More importantly, the infection can affect permanent teeth that erupt early, such as the first permanent molars. Therefore, parents should never ignore dental abscesses in their children. A dental abscess is a source of infection that can negatively impact the child’s overall health and normal growth.
The solution is in the parents’ hands: regular dental checkups, early detection, and prompt treatment of any tooth or gum abscess.
Treatment Methods for a Tooth Abscess in Children
First Line of Treatment
A medical (pharmacologic) approach, typically a combination therapy similar to that used for an acute abscess: systemic antibiotics targeting anaerobic bacteria, along with appropriate nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as indicated by the child’s age and condition.
Second Line of Treatment
In-office dental treatment of the decayed tooth that caused the abscess. For chronic abscesses in children, the dentist follows a specific protocol for managing infected primary teeth:
– Cleaning and shaping the root canals to remove necrotic and decomposed pulp tissue.
– Filling (obturating) the canals with appropriate materials.
– Restoring the crown of the tooth to prevent reinfection.
Parents should also work on improving the child’s overall oral health through education and establishing a routine of brushing with fluoride toothpaste and using a proper toothbrush.
8. Preventing Dental Abscesses
The most important tips and preventive measures to avoid gum and tooth abscesses include:
- Maintaining healthy teeth and gums with consistent, proper brushing to prevent tooth decay.
- Using fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
- Replacing your toothbrush at least every three months.
- Reducing the intake of sweets and unhealthy snacks between main meals.
- Having regular dental checkups and professional cleanings to monitor and maintain gum health.
- Using a fluoride mouthwash twice daily, if recommended by your dentist.
9. Can an Abscess Be Treated Without Surgery?
In many cases, especially when caught early, a dental abscess can be managed without a surgical incision. Root canal treatment, proper drainage through the tooth, antibiotics (when indicated), and thorough cleaning of the gums can sometimes control the infection without the need for surgical opening of the abscess.
However, prevention is always better than treatment, so the same preventive tips apply:
- Keep teeth and gums clean to prevent decay and infection.
- Use fluoride toothpaste twice daily.
- Change your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are worn.
- Limit sugary foods and unhealthy snacks between meals.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
- Use a fluoride mouthwash twice a day if advised by your dentist.
10. When Does an Abscess Need Surgical Intervention?
Surgical drainage is usually necessary when the abscess causes significant pain or swelling and cannot be adequately drained through the tooth or naturally. The procedure involves making a small incision in the abscess to allow pus to drain, followed by cleaning and disinfecting the area. This is typically done under local anesthesia in the dental office.
11. Does the Abscess Go Away After the Tooth Is Extracted?
An abscess can sometimes develop a few days after a tooth extraction. Bacteria and food debris may collect in the empty socket where the tooth was removed, leading to inflammation and infection (for example, a condition known as “dry socket” or post-extraction infection).
Proper post-extraction care, such as keeping the area clean, following the dentist’s instructions, and returning for follow-up if pain or swelling increases, is essential to prevent such complications.
Dr. Fares Matouk
– Bachelor’s degree in Dental Medicine and Surgery, Al-Qalamoun University – Damascus.
– Completed advanced courses in cosmetic dentistry and smile design.
– 11 years of experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.
Areas of interest and expertise include:
– All types of dental prosthetics (bridges, crowns, and porcelain laminate veneers such as veneers and Lumineers).
– Cosmetic dental services (esthetic fillings, tooth restorations, Hollywood Smile design).
– Comprehensive smile makeover planning and execution.
– Root canal therapy and tooth extractions.
