Posted on 8/21/2023 by Singing River Dentistry - Muscle Shoals
The mouth is the entry point of everything you consume. This makes it a good environment for both harmful and beneficial bacteria. Due to this, the teeth are susceptible to bacterial infection, which results in the buildup of pus at the tooth's root. If left untreated, dental abscesses can cause pain and tooth loss. The infection can also spread to the soft tissues, jawbone, and blood. Keep in mind that this oral issue happens gradually in four stages. Hence, you should seek emergency dental care before the infection progresses. Learn the four stages of tooth abscess.
Enamel Decay
In most cases, an abscessed tooth results from enamel decay. Failing to schedule a dental appointment and brush your teeth properly can lead to plaque buildup, creating a good place for bacteria to grow. If left untreated, the bacteria will produce acids that erode the tooth enamel. This eventually causes decay, which forms cavities.
Dentin Deterioration
Enamel loss puts the inner tooth parts at risk of damage. When the cavity reaches the dentin, it can spread quickly since this part is soft. At this stage, you will likely experience pain and sensitivity to hot, and cold. Some parts of the tooth may also break when you bite or chew.
Pulp Infection
When the bacteria reach the pulp/nerve tissues, you will be at high risk of losing your natural teeth. At this stage, your tooth may become hypersensitive to activities such as eating and brushing. Sharp toothaches are also common, which can interfere with your life.
Formation of Dental Abscess
Once the decay reaches the tooth nerve, bacteria will likely build up in the pulp chamber, leading to nerve deterioration and pus accumulation. This results in inflammation and severe tooth pain. Sometimes you may not feel pain because the tooth nerves are not functioning. Luckily, you can prevent dental abscesses by treating the early signs of decay. Contact us today, and our dentists will develop a personalized tooth abscess treatment plan.
About Us | Dentist Alabama | Singing River Dentistry Above all else, we here at Singing River Dentistry want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles! Click here to learn more about our practice! Singing River Dentistry, 121 East 6th Street, Tuscumbia, AL 35674 : : singingriverdentistry.com : 2/25/2026 : Page Terms:dentist Tuscumbia AL :
The mouth is the entry point of everything you consume. This makes it a good environment for both harmful and beneficial bacteria. Due to this, the teeth are susceptible to bacterial infection, which results in the buildup of pus at the tooth's root. If left untreated, dental abscesses can cause pain and tooth loss. The infection can also spread to the soft tissues, jawbone, and blood. Keep in mind that this oral issue happens gradually in four stages. Hence, you should seek emergency dental care before the infection progresses. Learn the four stages of tooth abscess.