Dental abscesses usually happen when pus builds up beneath your teeth or gums when you have an infection in your mouth. Anything that creates an opening for bacteria to get into the tooth or surrounding tissues can lead to a tooth infection. Causes include:
You may get a dental abscess if you have:
- Severe tooth decay or gum disease: A cavity, or tooth decay, is the destruction of the hard surfaces of the tooth. This occurs when bacteria break down sugars in food and drink, creating acid that attacks enamel.
- Broken, chipped or cracked teeth: Bacteria can seep into any opening in a tooth and spread to the pulp.
- Gum disease (periodontitis): Gum disease is an infection and inflammation of the tissues around the teeth. As gum disease progresses, the bacteria gain access to deeper tissues.
- Injury to the tooth: Trauma to a tooth can injure the inner pulp even if there’s no visible crack. The injury makes it susceptible to infection.
- An impacted tooth. A tooth that has not grown out of your gums properly
- Unremoved Dental Work: Dental procedures such as root canals or fillings that are not properly cleaned and sealed can allow bacteria to accumulate and cause an abscess.
- Radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Risk factors
These factors may increase your risk of a tooth abscess:
- Poor dental habits and care. Not taking proper care of your teeth and gums — such as not brushing your teeth twice a day and not flossing — can increase your risk of dental problems. Problems may include tooth decay, gum disease, tooth abscess, and other dental and mouth complications.
- A diet high in sugar. Frequently eating and drinking foods rich in sugar, such as sweets and sodas, can contribute to dental cavities and turn into a tooth abscess.
- Dry mouth. Having a dry mouth can increase your risk of tooth decay. Dry mouth is often due to the side effect of certain medications or issues related to aging.
- Injury or previous surgery to your teeth or gums: Bacteria can get into any damaged parts of the teeth or gums
- Having a weakened immune system: This includes people with certain underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, and those having treatment, including steroid medication or chemotherapy
It’s important to seek prompt treatment for a dental abscess as it can spread to other areas of the head and neck and potentially become life-threatening if left untreated.