A gum abscess is a localized infection, which is a pocket of pus that forms in your gums. It’s typically caused by bacteria accumulating around your teeth.
It might be tempting to pop a gum abscess, but doing so can be dangerous and have serious consequences. So, can popping a gum abscess kill you? Although unlikely, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
This article will cover what gum abscesses are, why popping them is a bad idea, what you should do instead, and when it’s time to seek professional help.
What is a gum abscess?
A gum abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in your gums when bacteria invade. The infection can occur in different areas of the gum tissue.
It’s important to note that a gum abscess is different from other types of dental abscesses, such as a periapical abscess, which occurs at the root of a tooth.
What does a gum abscess look like?
A gum abscess typically appears as a red, swollen area on your gums. You might also see a pus-filled pocket. The area around the abscess is usually tender and painful to the touch.
What causes gum abscesses?
Several things can cause a gum abscess, but most have to do with bacteria getting into places where they shouldn’t be.
- Poor oral hygiene: If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can build up and cause gum disease.
- Gum disease (periodontal disease): Gingivitis and periodontitis cause pockets to form in your gums. These pockets become breeding grounds for bacteria. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to an abscess.
- Foreign objects: Sometimes, food particles or other debris get stuck in your gums, causing irritation and infection.
- Tooth decay: This is less common with gum abscesses, but tooth decay can sometimes contribute to related infections.
Symptoms of a Gum Abscess
Gum abscesses are painful, and they can be dangerous. If you notice the following symptoms, see a dentist right away:
- Throbbing pain: This is usually intense and constant.
- Swelling and redness: The gums around the abscess will likely be swollen, tender, and red.
- Sensitivity: You may notice increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure in the affected area.
- Pus drainage: The abscess may drain pus, which can have a foul taste or odor.
- Bad breath: The infection can cause persistent bad breath (halitosis).
- Fever and swollen lymph nodes: In some cases, a gum abscess can cause fever and swollen lymph nodes, indicating a more serious infection.
The dangers of popping a gum abscess at home
You might think you’re helping yourself by popping a gum abscess, but you’re really creating bigger problems. Here’s why:
- You’ll make the infection worse. Popping an abscess introduces new bacteria to the area.
- You’ll spread the infection. Squeezing an abscess forces bacteria deeper into your tissues and even into your bloodstream.
- You risk sepsis. In rare cases, the infection can spread to your blood and cause sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
- You’re not fixing the problem. Popping an abscess only gives you temporary relief. It doesn’t address the underlying cause of the infection.
- You’ll damage your gums. The act of popping can damage sensitive gum tissue.
What to do if your gum abscess bursts
If your gum abscess ruptures, here’s what to do:
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to clean the area.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sugary foods that could irritate the area.
Even if the abscess has already popped, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as you can. They can make sure the infection is clearing up and prevent future problems.
Gum Abscess Treatment Options: Professional Intervention is Key
If you think you have a gum abscess, the best thing you can do is get to a dentist or other healthcare provider as soon as possible. Here are some of the treatments they may use:
- Incision and drainage. The dentist will make a small cut in the abscess to allow the pus to drain out.
- Root canal. If the infection has spread to the pulp of the tooth, you may need a root canal to remove the infected tissue.
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning). This procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, which addresses the underlying cause of the infection.
- Antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help fight the bacterial infection. You should start to see some improvement in 24 to 48 hours, and noticeable symptom reduction within a few days.
- Tooth extraction. In severe cases, the tooth may be too damaged to save, and extraction may be necessary.
How to prevent gum abscesses
Here are some things you can do to prevent gum abscesses:
- Brush twice a day and floss daily. Plaque and bacteria can lead to tooth decay and gum infections.
- Get regular dental checkups. Your dentist can catch problems early. You should probably schedule a cleaning at least twice a year.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks. Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause plaque.
- Wear a mouthguard. If you play sports, a mouthguard will protect your teeth and gums from trauma.
When to seek emergency care
Though rare, a gum abscess can become life-threatening. If you experience any of the following symptoms, head to the emergency room immediately:
- Swelling in your face or neck
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
- A fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
- Severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers
- Signs that the infection is spreading rapidly
These symptoms suggest the infection is spreading and needs immediate medical attention.
To Conclude
Popping a gum abscess yourself is a dangerous move. Please don’t do it!
Instead, see your dentist as soon as you can. Prompt, professional treatment can prevent serious complications and ensure you keep your smile – and your health – intact.