Overview
A dental abscess is a localized collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection in the teeth, gums, or surrounding tissues. It is a common dental emergency in Korea, and prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications. Hospitals and dental clinics such as Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Asan Medical Center Dental Clinic, and Samsung Medical Center Dental Department provide comprehensive care for abscess management.
What is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess occurs when bacteria infect the tooth pulp, gums, or jawbone, resulting in pus formation. There are three main types: periapical abscess (tooth tip), periodontal abscess (gum), and pericoronal abscess (around impacted teeth, usually wisdom teeth). It can affect adults and children and is often associated with tooth decay, gum disease, or dental trauma.
Symptoms
- Severe, throbbing toothache
- Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums
- Redness and tenderness around the affected area
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages
- Fever and general malaise
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing
Causes
- Untreated dental cavities or tooth decay
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Trauma to the tooth or jaw
- Impaction of wisdom teeth
- Weakened immune system increasing susceptibility to infection
Risk Factors
- Poor oral hygiene
- High sugar diet leading to cavities
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Previous dental infections or untreated tooth decay
- Diabetes or other conditions compromising immunity
- Dry mouth conditions reducing natural saliva defense
Complications
- Spread of infection to jaw, neck, or facial tissues
- Osteomyelitis (infection of the jawbone)
- Sepsis or systemic infection in severe cases
- Tooth loss if untreated
- Pain and difficulty eating or speaking
Prevention
- Maintain proper oral hygiene (brushing twice daily, flossing)
- Regular dental check-ups and cleanings
- Limit sugary foods and drinks
- Prompt treatment of cavities and gum disease
- Avoid smoking and maintain good overall health
- Immediate dental care after trauma
Treatment Options in Korea
Treatment depends on the abscess type and severity.
- Diagnosis
- Dental examination and X-rays to locate the abscess
- Pulp vitality tests for infected teeth
- Blood tests if systemic infection is suspected
- Medical history review to identify risk factors
- Medical Treatments
- Drainage of pus through incision or root canal
- Antibiotic therapy to control bacterial infection
- Pain relief with analgesics
- Extraction of severely damaged teeth if necessary
- Supportive Care
- Warm saltwater rinses to reduce discomfort
- Maintaining hydration and nutrition
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing
- Oral hygiene education to prevent recurrence
- Specialized Hospitals and Clinics in Korea
- Seoul National University Dental Hospital – Endodontics and oral surgery
- Asan Medical Center Dental Clinic – Emergency dental care
- Samsung Medical Center Dental Department – Comprehensive dental treatment
- Local dental clinics for routine care and follow-up
- Long-Term Follow-Up
- Monitoring for complete resolution of infection
- Preventive dental care to avoid future abscesses
- Education on oral hygiene and regular check-ups
- Management of underlying dental conditions contributing to abscess formation
