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Periodontal Abscess

Acute purulent infection in periodontal pocket requiring urgent care

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is Periodontal Abscess?

Periodontal abscess is a localized accumulation of pus within the gingival wall of a periodontal pocket, representing the third most common dental emergency after pulpal abscess and pericoronitis. It develops in patients with pre-existing periodontitis when impaction of foreign material, marginal closure of a deep pocket or systemic immune compromise leads to bacterial overgrowth.

The acute form may cause rapid alveolar bone destruction within days. Microbiologic profile includes Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Tannerella forsythia. Differential diagnosis must distinguish from periapical (endodontic) abscess by pulp vitality testing and periodontal probing. Untreated abscesses can spread, causing cellulitis, septicemia or tooth loss.

Symptoms

Sudden severe localized gum pain
Tender swelling of gingiva adjacent to a tooth
Pus discharge on probing or pressure
Tooth mobility and elongation feeling
Pain on biting or chewing
Bad taste or halitosis
Regional lymphadenopathy
Fever in severe cases

Risk Factors

Pre-existing periodontitis
Diabetes mellitus (especially uncontrolled)
Smoking
Immunosuppression (HIV, chemotherapy, corticosteroids)
Foreign body impaction (food, popcorn, toothpick)
Inadequate oral hygiene
Systemic antibiotic therapy in periodontitis patients
Stress and hormonal changes

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Severe localized gum pain
  • Visible swelling on the gum near a tooth
  • Pus discharge from the gum
  • Loose tooth with pain
  • Pain on biting or chewing
  • Bad taste in mouth
  • Fever or facial swelling

Treatment Methods

01
Vitality testing to exclude pulpal origin
02
Drainage through the pocket or incision
03
Subgingival scaling and root planing under local anesthesia
04
Saline or chlorhexidine pocket irrigation
05
Systemic antibiotics (amoxicillin + metronidazole) for spreading or systemic involvement
06
NSAIDs (ibuprofen) for pain control
07
Tooth extraction if hopeless prognosis
08
Definitive periodontal therapy after acute resolution
09
Glycemic control and risk factor management

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

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Diş Çürüğü

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Diş çürüğü, ağız bakterilerinin şekeri fermente ederek ürettiği asitlerin diş minesi, dentin ve pulpayı tahrip etmesiyle oluşan kronik bir hastalıktır.

Diş Eti Hastalıkları (Periodontal Hastalıklar)

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Periodontal hastalıklar, diş eti (gingivit) ve diş çevresindeki kemik ile bağ dokusunun (periodontit) bakteri kaynaklı iltihabıdır; tedavi edilmezse diş kaybına neden olur.

Impacted Tooth

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An impacted tooth — most often a wisdom tooth — has not erupted fully and remains in the jaw bone or gum. It can lead to pericoronitis, caries and cysts.

Dental Implants

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A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the jawbone that supports a crown, bridge or denture, providing the closest possible function and aesthetics to a natural tooth.

Teeth Whitening

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Teeth whitening lightens tooth color using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gels. In-office (professional) bleaching uses higher concentrations with light activation for faster results; home bleaching uses custom trays with lower concentrations over 1–4 weeks. Safety depends on healthy teeth, correct concentration, isolation of gums and transient sensitivity management.

Orthodontics

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Orthodontics is the dental specialty that corrects the alignment of the teeth and jaws, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits at any age, from childhood through adulthood.

Gingival Recession (Gum Recession)

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Gingival recession is the apical displacement of the gingival margin with exposure of the root surface. It may be localized or generalized and results from mechanical trauma, periodontal disease, thin biotype or anatomic factors. Recession can cause root sensitivity, caries and aesthetic concerns; management includes cause elimination and surgical root coverage when indicated.

Bad Breath (Halitosis)

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Halitosis is a chronic problem that affects a substantial part of the population. It is most often of oral origin and can interfere with social interactions.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.