Popped A Gum Abscess? Is The Situation Fatal?

Can Deliberate or Accidental Gum Abscess Popping Kill You?

Bacterial infestation and resultant infection cause swelling, which may interfere with your air pathways. When they rupture, either accidentally or deliberately, abscesses near your jaw start a chain of reaction that causes nearby gum tissues to swell as well. If they include flesh near your airway, the situation can end up as life-threatening.

Do Dental Abscesses Burst On Their Own?

Can a dental abscess burst on its own? We understand that this question must be rummaging in your mind, and the answer is yes, and when it happens, the situation is quite grave.

After an abscess pops itself, it does not kill you right away, but the collected pus spills into your mouth. When it happens, the first thing you should do is spit it out!

Immediate Action When an Abscess Bursts

Once your dental abscess bursts, do not waste any time further – contact your dentist immediately. A burst abscess is a dental emergency that requires swift attention.

What to Do If You Cannot See a Dentist Immediately?

It is possible to not be able to get in touch with your dentist right away. So, what can you do in such a scenario? Here are some measures that you can take to take control:

1. Rinse with Salt and Water Solution: Make a solution by mixing salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse your mouth with it. Salt, with its antimicrobial properties, slows down the infection’s progress.
2. Homemade Mouthwash: If you have hydrogen peroxide lying around, dilute it with a cup of water and use it to rinse your mouth gently. This inhibits bacterial growth to a considerable extent. However, make sure to never swallow it, as hydrogen peroxide is harmful if ingested.
3. Ice Bag: Place an ice bag externally on the affected area (your jaw or cheek) for temporary relief from discomfort.

Dental Treatments for Gum Abscess

Most dental abscesses stem from a tooth. If caught early, your dentist can save the tooth by treating the infected pulp and end it by sealing the canal. But if abscesses grow too large, your tooth may need to be extracted.

1. Root Canal: The first line of treatment is to save your tooth. If it is still salvageable, a root canal is the best route to save it. This procedure involves draining the abscess and removing the infected pulp.
2. Tooth Extraction: For deep abscesses, tooth extraction is the best solution after draining the pus out.