A periodontal abscess develops in a deep periodontal pocket. It is treated with an incision to drain the pus and a careful cleaning of the pocket of tartar and plaque; in more severe cases an antibiotic is prescribed.
What causes a periodontal abscess?
Unlike an endodontic abscess, the main cause is periodontitis, together with:
- untreated deep periodontal pockets;
- tartar that has not been removed;
- incorrectly made fillings or crowns.
All of these lead to inflammation of the gums, destruction of the bone and loosening of the teeth.
How does it differ from an endodontic abscess?
Food residue and bacteria can collect in deep periodontal pockets and lead to the development of a periodontal abscess. Unlike an endodontic abscess, in a periodontal abscess the tooth around which the abscess develops is alive and very loose.
How is a periodontal abscess treated?
An incision is again made to drain the collection of pus. In addition, the periodontal pocket that caused the abscess must be cleaned very carefully of tartar and plaque. In more severe periodontal abscesses an antibiotic is prescribed.
What is done once the acute inflammation is under control?
In more severe abscesses there is a great deal of bone loss. Once the acute inflammation is under control, it is advisable to carry out curettage and bone grafting in order to heal the periodontal pocket and prevent future periodontal abscesses in the same place.
Frequently asked questions
What causes a periodontal abscess?
The main cause is periodontitis, together with untreated deep periodontal pockets, tartar that has not been removed, and incorrectly made fillings or crowns.
How does a periodontal abscess differ from an endodontic one?
In a periodontal abscess the tooth around which the abscess develops is alive and very loose.
How is a periodontal abscess treated?
With an incision to drain the pus and a very careful cleaning of the periodontal pocket of tartar and plaque. In more severe cases an antibiotic is prescribed.
What is recommended once the acute inflammation is under control?
In more severe abscesses it is advisable to carry out curettage and bone grafting in order to heal the periodontal pocket and prevent future abscesses in the same place.