Gum Abscesses

Replacing teeth is our specialty at the Massachusetts offices of Dr. Martin Urban. Although a tooth may be lost to an acute injury, many fall out or have to be removed due to progressive gum disease. We don’t want this to happen to our patients, especially if they’ve already lost some teeth and are at increased risk for recurring periodontal infections, so we wanted to discuss the dangers and treatments for a gum abscess.

An abscess is where pus from a bacterial infection gathers. Gingival abscess are those that form at the gum line, while periodontal abscesses are more advanced and form deep within the gum pocket. As they build up, more of the gum wall will pull away from the tooth root, leaving a tooth less stable. Abscesses cause pain, sensitivity, swelling, and bad breath, and they are often accompanied by a fever and difficulty opening the mouth. They are emergencies and patients should not attempt to self-medicate them.

During an examination, we will determine the extent of an infection and whether a root canal is necessary. If only the gum material is infected, we will make an incision to drain the pus and cut away infected material. If the tooth is natural we will smooth its root in a process called planing to make it harder for bacteria to recolonize. The patient will be given painkillers and a recommended regimen of antibiotics. If an abscess is caught in time, the patient may be spared loss of jaw bone tissue and be able to keep the tooth.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Repairing Cracked Teeth

A cracked tooth is an emergency that demands immediate treatment. At the dental office of Dr. Martin Urban, one of our specialties is removing and replacing teeth with durable, attractive prosthetics. Different kinds of implants, crowns, and smaller prosthetics exist for a wide variety of situations relating to the extent of the injury and the patient’s overall condition.

Small cracks are known to dentists as “craze lines” and are considered a cosmetic issue. They, as well as chipping, may be covered with bonding. Like the fillings for cavities, these prosthetics are shaped as they are applied. Larger restorations, such as a crown or partial crown, will have to be shaped based on a physical or digital impression of the patient’s teeth. If a crack went into the pulp, a patient might be referred for a root canal prior to having their crown replaced in order to protect them from infection.

Cracked crowns can be replaced, but if a crack went into the tooth’s root, the entire tooth will have to be removed. Options for replacing it include implants, removable dentures, and fixed bridges in cases when more than one tooth is damaged. Implants that have become unstable also need to be replaced. To avoid cracking their teeth, patients are advised to wear mouthguards during sports and night guards if they clench their jaws in their sleep. They should also avoid using their front teeth for chewing or as tools.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.