What is a periodontal abscess?

What is a periodontal abscess?

A periodontal abscess usually occurs as a complication of advanced gum disease (periodontitis). However, it may occur secondary to a periapical abscess. A periodontal abscess occurs as a complication of periodontitis (advanced gum disease).

What is the difference between a periapical and a gingival abscess?

Sometimes, the periapical abscess can occur due to the spread of infection from a periodontal pocket to the tooth pulp via accessory canals. This is known as combined Perio-Endo Lesion. A gingival abscess occurs as a result of trapped food or foreign body in the space between the tooth and the gum near the coronal part of the gum.

What can I do to prevent a periodontal abscess?

A periodontal abscess usually occurs as a complication of advanced gum disease (periodontitis). So, keep your gums and teeth healthy to prevent tooth abscess. You should: Practice good oral hygiene: brush and floss your teeth regularly to remove food debris and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums.

What is periodontitis and how is it formed?

It is formed as a result of rapidly growing bacteria within a periodontal pocket, resulting in abscess formation. It is a frequent periodontal condition in which periodontal tissues may be rapidly destroyed.

A periodontal abscess is described as a localized accumulation of pus within the gingival wall of a periodontal pocket. More prevalent in patients with previous periodontal pockets,[1] it develops rapidly, destroying periodontal tissues and depicting clear symptoms.

When is a vertical incision indicated for drainage of lateral periodontal abscess?

A vertical incision for drainage is recommended when the abscess is fluctuant but cannot be adequately approached through the pocket. Acute lateral periodontal abscess causes rapid alveolar bone destruction (Fig. 5.7B ), hence the need for early and prompt intervention.

What does a periapical abscess look like on an xray?

X-ray: the periapical abscess will appear as a dark area (radiolucent) surrounding the root tip on an x-ray while the periodontal abscess will appear as a dark area alongside the tooth due to the destruction of PDL and bone loss.