March 6, 2025

Dental Abscess and Cavities

Dental Abscess and Cavities

Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND

Everyone has heard of cavities. What you may not have heard of is a dental abscess. What is a dental abscess? How is dental abscess related to a cavity? And what can you do if you are told you have a dental abscess? Let us get into it, shall we?

Basically a tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that’s caused by a bacterial infection. These can occur in different locations in the tooth. If the abscess occurs at the tip of the root, it is called a periapical abscess. If it occurs in the gums at the sides of the tooth root it is called a periodontal abscess. (1)

A periodontal abscess is associated with pre-existing gum disease such as periodontitis. This means that the bacteria that cause the infection originates from the gums and supporting tissues. (2) In contrast in a periapical tooth abscess the origin of the bacteria is usually an untreated dental cavity, tooth injury or prior dental work. (2) Please see the picture below for what a dental abscess may look like. (1)

Simply put an untreated cavity allows bacteria to enter the tooth and this bacteria leads to infection and inflammation that results in a dental abscess. (1) If your curious as to what a cavity is do not worry, I’m going to tell you! A cavity damages the enamel of the tooth caused by bacteria. Once the enamel wears away the bacteria reaches the next layer, called dentin. As the damage continues eventually the bacteria will get to the root or inner pulp. (3) Please see the above picture which includes a cavity in addition to the abscess.

Moving on what are the main risk factors for a dental abscess? Well as I previously said, having an untreated cavity can lead to a dental abscess. Having poor dental hygiene for any reason can increase the risk of dental problems. (1) I would like to point out that poor dental hygiene can be a result of poor mental health. For example, there is a well-known connection between oral health and dementia. (4) Another risk factor for a dental abscess is dry mouth. Having a nutrient lacking diet is also a risk factor. For example, a diet that is too high in sugar can increase the risk of cavities which in turn can increase the risk of dental abscess. (1) Other risk factors can include pre-existing gum disease, any bacterial infection or trauma to the gums. (2) Anything that can lead to a cavity can eventually result in dental abscess. For example, heartburn, eating disorders, diet and even hygiene can all increase your risk of cavity. (3)

Having a dental abscess can have symptoms such as a severe constant, throbbing toothache. This pain can spread to your jawbone, neck, ear and the corresponding lymph nodes may be swollen and tender. There may be pain with chewing or biting and even extremely hot/cold. There may be swelling in your face, check or neck. You may develop a fever. Lastly there may be a foul odor in your mouth. If the abscess ruptures, you may notice a sudden rush of foul smelling and tasting fluid. However, when the abscess ruptures there is usually a reduction in the level of pain. (1)

Having a dental abscess can lead to dangerous complications. For example, if the abscess does not drain then the infection may spread and can even lead to sepsis which is life threating. (1)

What can you do to help fight bad bacteria?

It all starts with diet! Work on incorporating more vegetables into your diet. Please see Invite’s Organic Greens and Greens Hx to help reach your vegetable goals.
Adequate dental hygiene practices – for example use a water pick, floss, and brush daily!
Get routine dental care such as cleanings!
Follow all dental recommendations made by your dentist. (1)
Garlic has been found to have powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties. This makes it excellent for helping with dental infections such as periodontal disease and dental abscess. (5) Please see Invite’s Aged Garlic and Probiotic Women!
Olive Leaf has also been found to have antimicrobial properties making it another excellent choice for helping to kill off the bad guys associated with a dental abscess. (6) Please see Invite’s Olive Leaf extract as well as our Renalaid formula.
Probiotics have been found to help reduce the risk of cavities and other dental infections. (7) Please see Invites Probiotic Hx, Probiotic Immune and even our chewable Prozyme Digest!
Zinc, which is antimicrobial has been found to help reduce the risk of certain dental infections such as cavities and periodontal disease. Both of these conditions can increase the risk of developing a dental abscess. (8) Please see Invite’s Zinc and Zinc lozenges as well as our wide variety of multi vitamins!