What is an "Abscessed" Tooth?
An abscessed tooth is an infected tooth. If the inside of the tooth, where the nerve usually lives (the pulp), is now dead and infected, this is a "periapical" abscess. If the abscess is coming from infection in a periodontal pocket (a void in the bone usually due to periodontal disease) it is a "periodontal" (or gum) abscess. Sometimes a dental abscess is excruciatingly painful and/or swollen, and at other times a patient will not even know it exists until he or she has a routine exam and/or x-ray.
On this site you will find information about dental abscesses as well as several other common problems that cause dental pain. Check the links on the upper left to learn more!
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© 2005-2008 Lynne Heckert, DDS, JD All rights reserved. No portion of this or any DentalSmarts.com site may be used without express written permission.
*The correct spelling is Abscessed Teeth. Many people forget the 's.'
Please remember that the information on these site is not all-inclusive and it may or may not apply to your personal situation. For dental advice you need to call your own dentist who needs to actually talk to you and examine you before giving advice or treatment. If, in your mind, you are questioning your dentist, get a second opinion, or a third ...
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