What Happens If You Pop An Abscess In Your Mouth?

When a pimple appears, many people are tempted to pop it. The same is true for abscesses in the mouth, but that doesn't mean it's a good idea. A dental abscess can form when bacteria invade the soft tissue in your mouth, such as a wisdom tooth or gums. If you do pop an abscess, it can cause further infection and complications that may require emergency dental care. Read on to find out more details about abscesses and why you should let skilled dentists handle them.

What is a dental abscess?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms when bacteria make themselves at home in the soft tissue of your mouth. This small lump is usually caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or tooth decay, but those aren't the only culprits. An abscess can also appear due to a dental injury or trauma. Some symptoms include swelling in the affected area, pain and tenderness to touch, fever, and bad breath.

Why shouldn't you pop an abscess?

The pus inside the abscess is made up of bacteria, dead tissue, and white blood cells. If you attempt to burst the lump yourself, it can spread those bacteria and cause further infection in your mouth and throat. Popping an abscess could also lead to complications such as sepsis, a serious and life-threatening condition. It's just not worth it to risk your health by popping a dental abscess yourself.

What should you do if you have an abscess?

If you think you may have an abscess, it's best to visit your dentist right away. They can examine the area and diagnose the issue as well as provide treatment options. The most common course of action is typically antibiotics. You may also need a root canal to remove the abscess and infected tissue or other dental work. The severity of the abscess determines whether your dentists will recommend extraction or surgery.

It's important to remember that popping an abscess is never a good idea. An untreated dental abscess can cause severe problems such as sepsis, so it's best to leave it in the hands of a professional dentist. With the right treatment, you can get rid of an abscess quickly and prevent further infection.

By following good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, you can help reduce your risk of developing a dental abscess in the first place. It's always better to take preventive measures than to have to deal with an uncomfortable abscess. If you suspect that you already have one, make sure to contact a dentist and get treatment as soon as possible.