I need a root canal, and above the tooth that needs it there is a hard lump. Now the lump has got bigger and some puss comes out. What can I do for it?


The presence of a lump above the tooth is the result of bacteria. This tooth condition is also called an abscessed tooth. If the bacterial infection is not treated in time, it may aggravate the pain drastically. The infection may also gradually spread to the surrounding teeth, and may result in complete tooth loss or other health complications. The abscess is characterized by the formation of a sac-like structure in the gums. Eventually, the sac or the lump gets bigger and puss comes out of it.

Abscess tooth causes include gum disease and cavities. Gum disease or periodontal disease is referred to as the condition in which the tissues and the bones surrounding the teeth get infected. The main cause of the gum disease is the bacteria. Cavities are another important factor for the teeth abscesses. Cavities are formed as a result of tooth decay, which, in turn, is caused by the formation of acids due to the deposition of plaque. The bacteria use the tissues of the teeth as a breeding ground and form harmful acids to damage the tooth.

The puss that comes out of the lump above the tooth is a result of the immune response of the body. The immune system of the body fights the bacterial infection at the gum site. Puss is primarily a combination of the white blood cells that move to the infected area and dead cells. The various symptoms of the abscessed tooth condition are as follows:

  • Pain while chewing
  • Swelling of the jaw
  • Bad odor from mouth
  • Occasional bleeding from the gums
  • Trouble opening of mouth
  • Mild fever
In case, you experience any of the above symptoms, consult your dentist for suggestions regarding the appropriate infected tooth treatment procedures. Depending upon the extent of the lump above the tooth and other factors, the dentist may recommend antibiotics or may either opt for root canal treatment or any other surgery.  Root canal surgery aims at removing the infected pulp of the tooth. After the infected soft tissue of the tooth is extracted out, the empty space is permanently filled with a filing material.

In the mean time, some of the home remedies you may opt for to get relieve from tooth pain are as follows:

  • Use lukewarm salt water to rinse your mouth.
  • Use dental floss every day.
  • Brush twice a day with soft bristles.
  • Apply ice bags over the swellings to relieve pain.
References

  1. http://www.einstein.edu/einsteinhealthtopic/?healthTopicId=100&healthTopicName=Dental+Health&articleId=40498&articleTypeId=3
  2. http://www.netwellness.uc.edu/question.cfm/52147.htm

answered by A S

Try these simple cures at home, however if the pain increases or the problem persists then consult a dentist.

  • Take a glass of lukewarm water add a tsp of salt to it. Take a sip and swish between your teeth and gums. This will have a soothing effect on the lump and salt will help it to drain the puss out. Repeat this several times in a day.
  • Apply ice wrapped in a bag or towel over the affected area, or suck on small ice cubes frequently, this will help in reducing the swelling and will also serve as local anesthetic for the pain.
  • If you have smoking or tobacco chewing habit, stop it completely as it contributes to elevate the infectious condition on the gums and may worsen your lump.

answered by S P


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