| Periapical
(root-tip) Abscess
 A
periapical (root-tip) abscess is a pocket of infection
at the base of a tooth's root. The tooth becomes abscessed
after the pulp (nerve) of the tooth becomes infected.
A periapical abscess is usually caused by deep decay or
an accident (trauma to the tooth involving nerve damage).
A periapically abscessed tooth will require either Pulp
Therapy or an Extraction.
In some cases an antibiotic will also be prescribed. |
Lateral
Abscess
A lateral
abscess is similar to a periapical abscess, but develops along
the lateral surface of the tooth's root. In this case, the
infection comes from outside the tooth instead of from within.
A lateral abscess can either be gingival (located near
the gum line) or periodontal (located deeper in the
periodontal tissues). Since most cases of lateral abscess
are due to periodontitis (gum disease),
treatment is part of an overall periodontal
(gum) treatment program.
All
Abscesses
 An
abscessed tooth may be sensitive or painful, and if left untreated
can lead to damage of underlying permanent teeth and/or cause
facial swelling and become life-threatening.
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