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Elite Endodontics logo
  • Our Practice
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    • Meet Dr. Beam
    • Meet Dr. Webb
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    • Technology
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    • Root Canals FAQ
    • Endodontic Retreatment
    • Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy)
    • Sedation Dentistry
  • The GentleWave Difference
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    • More Comfortable Root Canals
    • Effective Root Canals
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    • Infected Teeth
    • Dental Abscess
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Dental Abscess

Home » Problems We Treat » Dental Abscess

Abscessed teeth are a common endodontic ailment that people of all ages can experience. The condition refers to a bacterial infection that affects a tooth, causing it to develop a pocket of pus somewhere in or around its structure. People with an abscessed tooth may have mild or severe radiating pain that could extend to their ears or necks.

If you have a dental abscess, it is important to receive the treatment you need from a licensed endodontic professional like Dr. Todd. The infection will not clear up without professional endodontic intervention. If you choose not to seek dental abscess treatment, the illness could spread to your neck, head, and other body parts.

Abscessed Teeth and Infected Teeth: What Are the Differences?

People often use the terms “dental abscesses” and “tooth infections” interchangeably, but they are not the same. A tooth infection results from oral bacteria entering a tooth and infecting its pulp. Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer of teeth that protects the pulp, nerves, and roots against bacteria, but germs can bypass the enamel if you have a deep cavity, gum disease, or a dental fracture.

An abscess can form when a dental infection does not receive prompt treatment. The infection can extend beyond the tooth pulp and root to infect the tip of the tooth root (periapical abscess) or the bone next to the affected tooth (periodontal abscess).

In severe cases, both tooth infections and abscesses can cause extreme pain that extends from the site of the bacterial damage to other parts of the head and neck. However, an advanced abscess will form a pus-filled pocket in the gum tissue near the infected tooth.

Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth

Radiating pain is one of the primary signs of a dental abscess. The ache might come and go periodically or spread to other parts of your ear, jaw, and neck. You might feel worse when lying down or chewing food.

Facial swelling and redness may also be present, as well as gum inflammation. The pain could lead to tooth sensitivity, which causes discomfort when you eat or drink something hot or cold. A periodontal abscess due to gum disease may cause your gum tissues to recede, weakening the support structure for your teeth and making them loose.

In some cases, people have tender lymph nodes in their necks or under their jaws. Fevers are also possible.

Causes of Dental Abscesses

Bacteria are the cause of dental abscesses. The mouth contains hundreds of bacteria types, some of which are more harmful than others. If bacteria enter a tooth or gum tissue, they could lead to an infection, which, if left untreated, can develop into an abscess.

The most common ways that bacteria invade teeth and gums are through:

  • Tooth Decay
  • Gum Disease
  • Cracked or Broken Tooth

Failing to receive timely treatment for the initial tooth infection can lead to the death of tooth pulp. Depending on the condition of your teeth, you could have multiple dental abscesses at once. They can also travel through bone and develop in various locations in the mouth, even though one tooth may be the cause of the infection.

Brushing and flossing at least twice a day and seeking routine dental care while limiting your sugar consumption will prevent excessive harmful bacteria growth in your mouth.

How We Diagnose Abscessed Teeth at Elite Endodontics

Dr. Todd of Elite Endodontics has several methods for diagnosing abscessed teeth in his Pensacola patients. During an endodontic examination, he will perform a visual inspection of your teeth and gums, he may also gently tap on your teeth. If an abscess is present, you will feel pain when he taps the infected tooth.

Dr. Todd may also take either an intraoral x-ray or 3-D Cone-Beam image to get a closer look at your teeth. Not only will the digital imaging help him pinpoint the location of an abscess, but the x-ray will also show him if the infection is spreading to other areas in your mouth.

Our Dental Abscess Treatment Options in Pensacola

Dental abscess treatment varies based on the severity of a patient’s condition. At Elite Endodontics, Dr. Todd may prescribe antibiotics to treat an oral infection that extends beyond the abscessed tooth. However, the medication alone will not get rid of the abscess.

A root canal is one of the more common dental abscess treatment options. To save the tooth and eliminate the source of the infection, Dr. Todd will clean out the pulp of the tooth, including the infected tissue, and reseal the tooth with a temporary filling. You will need to follow up with your general dentist for a permanent filling and/or crown. Alternatively, if the tooth is not salvageable, it may require extraction.

Find relief Today

During your visit, our Pensacola endodontists, Dr. Todd and Dr. Beam, will answer any and all questions about your oral health. We will provide a detailed financial consultation to ensure your treatments are timed effectively and affordably.

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patient testimonials

Experience 5-Star Care

Our goal is to provide our patients with the highest level of dental care available today. Read what our patients are saying about their 5-star experience with us! We can’t wait to do the same for you!

Michelle D.
I can say nothing but the most positive things about Elite Endodontics. Dr. Todd and Leah were the best! I needed a root canal, my face was swollen, and I was in a lot of pain. They worked me in the same day, and as far as I'm concerned, they saved my life. The entire office staff was polite and caring. Dr. Todd and Leah lightened the mood and took away all of my fears. Within a couple of days, I was back to my previous self. I cannot thank them enough and highly recommend them to everyone I know. Thank you, Elite, for all that you did for me!
Irena O.
I was referred to this office from my dentist and I’m really pleased with the work they did for me. Everything went smoothly and they followed up with me the next day.
Toad F.
Had to get a root canal and Elite Endodontics was recommended by my dentist. Absolutely painless and the staff were professional and very friendly. I would absolutely recommend them!
Danil P.
Dr. Todd at Elite Endodontics is Professional with a friendly touch. I have had bad experiences with Dentists before. Dr. Todd performed a root canal and explained the procedure as he progressed. The relatively painless procedure was performed in less than an hour with care for my comfort. The office is modern and staff friendly. I recommend Dr Todd at Elite Endodontics for Excellent dental care.
Sharon B.
I had a root canal at Elite Endodontics. The procedure was completed within an hour with very little discomfort. Dr. Todd explained each step of the process carefully and gave clear instructions at the end. The assistant, Alesha, was so very kind and caring. She called the next day to check on me, which was much appreciated. I highly recommend Elite Endodontics to anyone needing a procedure that this office offers.
kim g
I'd give way more stars if I could! I've seen a lot of doctors for myself and my son, but Dr Todd is hands down the best! His bedside manner can't be beat! My 14 year old had to get a root canal (which is a terrifying thing for a mom), but it was flawless! my son even said he thinks he dozed off a couple of times. Dr Todd explained everything ahead of time and let my son know as he was about to do something. what could have been a scary procedure was super easy. Go to Dr. Todd if you need an Endodontist! I'm super super impressed and 100% thankful we came to him to get this procedure done! Thank you to Dr Todd and his entire staff! Top Notch!!
John B.
Amazing experience. I have been in lots of dental chairs but this was awesome....the technology and the teamwork are top notch! Tooth number 28 lookin better than it ever has!
Michael C
This is the BEST dental experience I have had in my 58 years on this planet= the facility is very inviting, Gina and Doctor Beam are extremely competent & compassionate, and my root canal went so well that I fell asleep during the procedure… all readers of this review owes it to themselves to check out this 6 star business!!!
Greg W.
Dr B has mastered his craft and does excellent work. He takes the time to answer any questions you have and ensures you are comfortable. If you need an endodontist then look no further. Top notch service with modern equipment and friendly staff.
Brooke D.
Couldn't be happier with our experience! Doctor Todd and his amazing assistant, Nicole, went above and beyond with my daughter, making her feel completely at ease. The front office staff struck the perfect balance of friendliness and professionalism, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Top notch.
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  • Pensacola5016 Grande Dr. Unit 101
    Pensacola, FL 32504
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Thursday 7:30 am – 3:30 pm
Friday 7:30 am – 3:30 pm
Pensacola, FL
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