Is an Abscess a Dental Emergency?

If you ever truly experience a dental abscess, you’ll feel like it’s an emergency and want to rush straight to a dentist’s office. But maybe you feel a little bit guilty. Is it really an emergency where you need to ask for special treatment and rally everyone around you for help? The answer is yes, you should see anemergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN when you have an abscess, because this condition definitely qualifies as an emergency.

What to Do Until You See Your Dentist

If you suspect you have a dental abscess, try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce bacteria and alleviate discomfort. Any salt will do; it doesn’t have to be special salt harvested from the Himalayan mountains. Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage pain temporarily, but don’t take aspirin. Your best bet is to lay a warm or cold compress against your mouth where it hurts. Some people respond to warmth, others to cold. If one doesn’t work, try the other.

Why It’s an Emergency

Left untreated, an abscess can lead to significant complications, including the spread of infection to other parts of your body. That’s why, whatever you do, do not attempt to drain the abscess yourself, as this can worsen the infection. In rare cases, it can even become life-threatening. Immediate dental care is necessary to drain the abscess, eliminate the infection and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.

Ignoring an abscess can have serious consequences, so prompt treatment is crucial.If you’re experiencing symptoms of an abscess, contact yourdentist in Indianapolis, IN immediately for an emergency appointment. We’ll try to get you in as soon as possible. At Indiana Emergency Dental, we’re ready to take care of all your dental emergencies.