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Signs Your Toothache is Likely a Dental Abscess Instead of a Cavity


Posted on 3/20/2019 by Dr. Simon K Choyee
Signs Your Toothache is Likely a Dental Abscess Instead of a CavityIt is bad enough to have a toothache. It could mean you have a cavity. You may try to live with the pain before you give in and make a trip to our office for some dental work.

But what it is not and instead is a dental abscess. Waiting could lead to serious complications. It is a good idea to learn when a toothache is not a cavity, but is a dental abscess.

How a Cavity and Abscess Differ


A cavity forms when bacteria turns into plaque and starts to eat away at the tooth. The cavity is a hole in the tooth. Pain from a cavity is not always present. It happens when you put pressure on the affected tooth and is sensitive to temperature. Normally the pain from a cavity is manageable. If the cavity continues to grow it can cause an infection that spreads to the roots of the tooth and to the gums.

This infection is the beginning of the abscess. The infection will lead to puss collecting around the tooth and gums. The pain from an abscess is more persistent and is stronger. It is not as easy to manage the pain of an abscess.

Signs of an Abscess


Like a cavity, a toothache is a sign of an abscess. The difference is the amount of pain and the length of time the pain lasts. Another sign of an abscess is swelling and redness around the gums. A pocket of puss can form in the gums. This feels like a blister on the gums.

It is also possible that the abscess will cause bleeding. If a cavity has progressed to this point, it is more likely turned into a dental abscess.If you do see signs that the toothache is more than just a cavity, contact our office to schedule an appointment today.
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