How to Drain a Tooth Abscess at Home – Learn how to safely and effectively drain a tooth abscess at home with this step–by–step guide. We‘ll cover the necessary supplies, how to prepare the area and the best methods for draining the abscess. Get the relief you need without a trip to the dentist.early finder
A tooth abscess is a painful pocket of pus that can form around a tooth and cause discomfort during eating, drinking, and even breathing.
In this article, we’ll cover the symptoms of a tooth abscess, explore whether draining a tooth abscess at home is possible, and discuss home remedies for relief.
We’ll also cover tooth abscess treatments and when to see a dentist
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What is a Tooth Abscess?
A tooth abscess is a pus buildup caused by a bacterial infection in a broken, chipped, or decayed tooth.
Bacteria enter through cracks in the enamel and infect the tooth’s pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This can spread to bones, faces, and eyes. Risk factors include weak enamel, HIV/AIDS, cancer, and consuming sugary foods.Drain a Tooth Abscess at Home
There are two types of tooth abscesses: periapical (at the root tip) caused by untreated cavities and periodontal (in gums) caused by severe gum disease. Symptoms include pain and swelling.
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Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess
If you have a tooth abscess, you may experience a sharp, throbbing, or gnawing toothache. This pain is often the first sign of a spot.
Other symptoms include fever, sensitivity to hot or cold food or drink, discomfort, swollen neck glands, pain when chewing, bad breath, swollen jaw or gum, bitter taste in the mouth, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and a salty taste.
In some cases, the pulp of the affected tooth may die, leading to a loss of pain, but the infection can still spread and cause serious problems.
Can You Drain a Tooth Abscess at Home?
A trained dentist must drain a tooth abscess in proper surgical conditions. Do not attempt self-drainage. If you have a tooth abscess, visit a dentist promptly. In the meantime, you can try some home remedies for temporary pain relief.
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Home Remedies to Relieve Tooth Abscess Pain
A tooth abscess can be a painful experience, and while seeking professional dental help is the best option, there are some home remedies that can be used to manage the pain until you can see a dentist.7 Ways to Cancel Paramount Plus on Amazon
It is important to note that these remedies are not a replacement for professional dental treatment but can help you manage the pain until a dentist can attend to you.
1. Rinse Using Salt Water
Saltwater has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, making it a simple but effective home remedy for tooth abscess pain.
To use, mix 1/2 teaspoon of table salt with 1/2 cup of water and rinse your mouth with the mixture. Swish it around for at least two minutes and then spit it out. Repeat this process up to three times daily.10 Ways To Get Rid Of Cooking Smoke In The House
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda has antibacterial properties and can help remove plaque from the mouth.
Mix 1/2 tablespoon of baking soda with equal parts water and rinse your mouth with the mixture for 5 minutes. Spit out and repeat the process until the mixture is used up.
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3. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, making it a helpful remedy for reducing tooth abscess pain and swelling.
To use, dilute the oil with a carrier oil such as olive oil, sunflower oil, or avocado oil before application. A guide for dilution is provided below:
Dilution for Adults:
- 5% dilution: 15 drops of essential oil to 6 teaspoons of carrier oil
- 3% dilution: 20 drops of essential oil to 6 teaspoons of carrier oil
- 5% dilution: 30 drops of essential oil to 6 teaspoons of carrier oil
- 10% dilution: 60 drops of essential oil to 6 teaspoons of carrier oil Dilution for Children:
- 5-1% dilution: 3-6 drops of essential oil to 6 teaspoons of carrier oil
After dilution, apply a few drops of the mixture to a swab or cotton ball and place it in contact with the tooth abscess. Leave for 10 minutes before rinsing out. Repeat this process three times daily.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide has strong antibacterial properties and can help reduce dental plaque and bleeding gums.
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, being careful not to swallow any while swishing it around in your mouth. Spit out the mixture and repeat the process multiple times daily.
5. Cold Compress
A cold compress can help reduce toothache and swelling.
To use, place ice cubes in a dry towel and press it against your skin near the affected area for 15 minutes. Repeat the process multiple times daily.
6. Garlic
Garlic has pain-soothing and antibacterial properties.
Crush a fresh clove of garlic into a paste and rub it on the infected area. Repeat this process multiple times daily.
Tooth Abscess Treatments
Proper treatment for an abscessed tooth requires a visit to the dentist. Your dentist will be able to provide the necessary care to help you get relief from your tooth pain and discomfort. Here are some treatments you can expect when you visit your dentist:
- Draining: Your dentist will drain out the pus from your abscess. They will create small incisions in the abscess and flush the area with a sterile saline solution. Sometimes, they may insert a rubber drain to keep the area open for drainage. If you have a drain placed, it is typically removed after a few days.
- Root Canal: The root canal procedure helps to remove the infection in your abscessed tooth. Your dentist will drill into the affected tooth to remove the infected pulp. After draining the abscess, they will fill and seal the pulp chamber and root canals to prevent bacteria from entering. In some cases, a crown may be placed on the affected tooth to strengthen it.
- Tooth Extraction: If the affected tooth is extensively damaged, your dentist may recommend extraction. This will remove the damaged tooth and allow them to drain the abscess.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics are not the first choice for treating most cases of tooth abscess. The American Dental Association only recommends antibiotic treatment for patients with severe dental abscesses. However, if your dentist suspects that the infection has spread to other parts of your body, they may prescribe oral antibiotics to treat the infection.
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When to See a Dentist for a Tooth Abscess
If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, don’t wait to seek dental care. Ignoring the issue can result in the spread of infection and potentially serious health consequences.
Early signs of the infection spreading may include a rapid heartbeat, fever, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and swelling in the neck, jaw, or face. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention at an emergency room or contact your dentist or healthcare provider.