An abscess may have a sudden appearance (acute) or it may have been present for a long period of time (chronic) without any signs or symptoms. In the acute stage, the gums around the abscess become enlarged, red, tender, and painful. The tooth may be loose and sensitive to chewing. Pressing on the area where the gums and teeth meet may release pus. A dull pain that throbs and radiates maybe present. Periodontal abscess may produce a feeling of sickness, fever, and swelling in the lymph glands in the neck. If the infection has been present for a long time (chronic), there may be no symptoms. Treating the acute abscess is more successful than treating the chronic, which has caused more extensive damage over time.

Conventional Treatment
It is important to determine which type of abscess is present so that the appropriate treatment may be rendered. In all three types of abscess, the pus must be drained. Antibiotics may be prescribed if systemic symptoms such as fever and swelling in the lymph glands are present. (Mouth infections often affect the lymph glands in the neck region.) Deep cleaning will be suggested for gum pocket (periodontal) abscesses. If too much bone has been lost and the tooth is too loose, it may have to be pulled. In the case of a periapical abscess, root canal therapy (see Endodontic Techniques, Root Canal Therapy, in Part Three) or tooth extraction is indicated.

Homepathic Treatment
When using tablets, dissolve them under your tongue. When using liquids, place the drops directly on your tongue. (Because of their alcohol base, liquids should not be used by children or recovering alcoholics.) Do not eat or drink for fifteen minutes prior to or after taking medication. (See Part One, Homeopathy, for further information.)