Preventing an Abscess

How to prevent an abscess so you don’t have to be treated for an abscess

An abscess is basically an infection in your gums next to the root of a sick tooth. Abscesses are painful and cannot be treated at home, only a dentist can help you treat and recover from an abscess. In most cases abscesses are preventable, so by following the proper steps you will never have to deal with the bad breath, pain, swelling or progressively worse symptoms associated with having an abscess.

Here are some tips to help you prevent abscess:

Brush Your Teeth

The first tip is simple. Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential for good oral hygiene. Make sure to use toothpaste that has fluoride in it to help fight bacteria and use a toothbrush with soft bristles to not damage your teeth. Also, using a mouthwash with fluoride can help prevent diseases.

Flossing

A toothbrush can only get the front, back, and top of your teeth. Flossing is where those spaces between your teeth get cleaned which is where food collects and diseases begin. Flossing your teeth once a day can and will help prevent diseases, especially abscess.

Regular Dentist Check-Ups

Brushing and flossing your teeth are ways to help keep your teeth strong and healthy, unfortunately, that doesn’t cut it. In order to maintain oral health, it is vital to have regular dental examinations and professional cleanings throughout the year. Going to the dentist can help monitor the health of your teeth and stay on top of any problems there may be to keep them from becoming bigger problems.

Abscesses start small, bacteria turns to plaque, which eats away the enamel on your teeth, which becomes a cavity, which weakens the tooth which causes an infection which spreads to the root, which moves to the gums and then to the bones in the jaw. All of this is preventable.

At Goodman Dental, we can help you identify any warning signs and get your smile back on track.

Give us a Call to schedule your next appointment.