If you haven’t had a general dental checkup in some time, then many problems can arise that you don’t know about. Then, without intervention, they can become much, much worse. Take tooth abscesses, for example.
Tooth abscesses are pockets of pus that bacterial infections cause. A periapical abscess forms at the root’s tip, while periodontal abscesses form at the sides of your tooth’s root in the gum. Typically, they form because of an injury or untreated cavity.
If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, it’s essential to seek help from your local general dental clinic. Here are a few tell-tale signs that you might have one.
Toothache
If you notice a persistent and severe throbbing toothache, then a tooth abscess can be one of several reasons. You may even notice that the pain radiates into your neck, ear, and jawbone. Even if the cause isn’t an abscess, it’s still a good idea to see a dentist to get to the cause of the pain.
Sensitivity
One of the more common signs of a tooth abscess is sensitivity. You may notice that your teeth feel extra sensitive when you expose them to hot and cold temperatures. Sometimes, even biting or chewing can lead to uncomfortable sensitivity.