Periostitis, abscess, flux – in principle, all these concepts are almost identical – this is a limited accumulation of pus in the tissues that occurs during inflammation. In the maxillofacial region, as a rule, it is the result of a complicated dental disease. It can also be caused by a furuncle, sore throat, damage to the skin or oral mucosa, the introduction of bacteria into the tissues with a syringe during anesthesia, etc. An abscess can also form as a result of infection by the blood or lymph flow during common infectious diseases (flu, etc.).
Symptoms and course
Usually an abscess is preceded by a toothache characteristic of periodontitis. It appears in the area of a certain tooth, biting which causes increased pain. Soon there is swelling of the soft tissues and compaction, painful when touched. If an abscess develops under the oral mucosa, its swelling and redness can be seen on examination. When the abscess is located closer to the skin (face and submandibular region), the picture is similar. The progression of the purulent process is accompanied by a deterioration in the general condition, an increase in body temperature, a violation of appetite, and sleep. To remove the source of infection from a diseased tooth, and most importantly, to prevent its spread to the surrounding tissue and area, a doctor will need to promptly open the abscess. Otherwise, the possibility of developing a limited inflammation into a diffuse one with its transition into phlegmon is not excluded. The development of an abscess can lead to a breakthrough of pus out or into the mouth. The outflow of pus relieves acute phenomena, the pain subsides or disappears, the usual contours of the face or oral mucosa are restored, and general well-being is stabilized. Such an outcome should not be reassuring, as the process continues, but already in the chronic stage. In the future, it can become aggravated, and this is purulent discharge from the fistulous tract with bad breath, sensitization of the body with toxic decay products. general well-being is stabilized. Such an outcome should not be reassuring, as the process continues, but already in the chronic stage. In the future, it can become aggravated, and this is purulent discharge from the fistulous tract with bad breath, sensitization of the body with toxic decay products. general well-being is stabilized. Such an outcome should not be reassuring, as the process continues, but already in the chronic stage. In the future, it can become aggravated, and this is purulent discharge from the fistulous tract with bad breath, sensitization of the body with toxic decay products.
Treatment
The speed of the development of the process gives reason to strongly recommend not to postpone the visit to the dentist. Before that, as a relief measure, you can use painkillers, warm rinsing of the mouth, a thermal bandage. Taking antibiotics and other strong drugs without a prescription is not recommended.