When inflammation spreads into the supporting structure of the teeth, it will result in periodontal abscess. This will subsequently destroy the supporting structure of the teeth,the bone and the tissue (periodontium). The destruction will then lead to the formation of pockets. Food particles will accumulate in the pockets to form plaque and tartar. This creates a conducive environment for the bacteria to live and multiply. In the end, infection sets in and pus develops in the gums.



Gum abscess can form around a living tooth. Beginning from the gum, the pus works itself into the bone by creating a hole in the bone around the teeth. This will eventually destroy the underlying bone. The problem can only get worse. That's why periodontal disease cannot be left untreated.

Unlike a toothache, you can't feel the pain when the infection sets in. When the pus begins to take form in the gum, you will experience continuous throbbing and burning sensations. Usually overnight, the infected area will swell. You may notice a white spot on the gum. If you push the gum around your teeth, it hurts. You may have difficulty in opening your mouth because of the swelling and inflammation of gums close to your teeth. Your taste bud will be affected also because of the draining of the pus. Bear in mind that the infection can spread to other gum areas if you don't get proper treatment.

You can use salt water and clove oil to reduce the pain temporarily before you seek dental help. Pain relieving medication with anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen, motrin or acetaminophen may also help. Sometimes after using mouthwashes and peroxide flushes, the pus will form again. They can only relieve the pain but cannot treat the infection. You should see a dentist right away to have it treated.

Antibiotic therapy is the best temporary relief for periodontal abscess. It is administered during a dental emergency. You should get relief between 24 to 48 hours.

Dentists usually use scaling and root planing to remove the abscess. To get rid of the infection, they will thoroughly clean the canal system within the tooth. They also remove the debris to allow the pus to drain. But you may need periodontal surgery or even worse, selective tooth extraction if the gum disease becomes serious.

You need to keep your tooth and root surfaces clean. This can prevent the formation of pockets which gather bacteria. Then your risk of developing gum abscess is lower. You can also stop infection by removing plaque through proper oral hygiene.

Regular dental visits can help to control active gum disease by reducing the depth of periodontal pockets around the affected teeth. Regular dental cleanings can reduce bacterial growth in periodontal pockets to lower the possibility of developing periodontal abscess.

Gum abscess begins as an inflammation of the gum tissue (gingivitis). If you don't take immediate measures, it can destroy supporting structures and become periodontitis. If you need dental emergency treatment, you are already in the acute phase of gum disease. Proper dental hygiene and regular dental visits can stop gum abscess from developing.