It is one of the most frequent oral problems among patients that we see in Nart Dental Clinic. Therefore, do you know what a abcess is? The abscess is a bag of pus that is generated in the mouth- extends beyond the apex of the tooth into the surrounding bone -that has been produced by a nearby infection. This infection causes an inflammation of the tissue in the area or a gum boil.There are several causes that can cause the appearance of a phlegmon. Among the most frequent we find:
1. Decays that were not treated.
Not going frequently to a check up with the dentist has its consequences and one of them is not diagnosed tooth decay. A badly treated caries, or what is worse, that has not received any treatment can infect the pulp and that will create an infected abscess near the affected tooth.
2. A mouth traumatism.
A mouth traumatism should always be controlled as its consequences can be serious. In the case that concerns us, yes, a dental trauma can cause a phlegmon. And it is that, if the blow produces a fracture of the tooth and, of rebound, an infection in the pulp, the phlegmon will not take long to appear.
3. Periodontal disease.
It is another common situation in the dentists’ office. In addition, it is a pathology that can cause secondary illnesses and that is a risk factor for other diseases. In the case of periodontal disease, the gums are already infected, so that abscesses would be created in it.
How is a phlegmon treated?
If you feel inflammation in the cheek, very intense pain -which is aggravated when you touch the area-, you have a bad taste in your mouth and even you notice swelling problems these are the symptoms that usually derive from the appearance of an abscess. Symptoms of phlegmon vary, depending on the location and severity of the infection. If you can have a phlegmon, you should see your dentist as soon as it is possible. Ideally, do not self-medicate and do not wait for the pain to stop because the infection usually gets worse and may become generalized. If it is not treated, an infection can spread to deeper tissue and disable the limb or area involved. Although your dentist will tell you the steps to follow, in general, the treatment of gumboil is to follow a therapy based on antibiotics and anti-inflammatories that will help eliminate infection and inflammation.
The next step will be to treat the cause that has caused its appearance, that is, badly treated caries, trauma or periodontal disease. The treatment is specific for each patient and case.