There are many different types of conditions that require attention, such as an abscess or gum disease. What's the difference between a dental cyst vs abscess?

Dental Cyst vs Abscess: 5 Signs You Need a Dentist

Are you suffering from toothache or jaw pain? Are you worried that, like so many other people, you could have an untreated abscess on your gum, tooth, or jawbone?

Dental cysts and abscesses are painful, worrisome conditions. It’s important to treat them as soon as possible to avoid further complications.

In this guide, we’ll look at the biggest differences between a dental cyst vs abscess. Read on to find out how to tell the two apart, how to spot the symptoms, and when to visit your dentist.

1. Persistent or Recurring Pain

Persistent or recurring pain may be one of the primary signs that you may need to visit the dentist. Both a dental cyst and an abscess can cause this type of pain, so it is important to understand the difference and how each one may require different treatments.

Dental cysts are filled with fluid and form beneath the tooth. They represent a slow infection. On the other hand, an abscess is a form of bacterial infection that can be both painful and damaging.

The treatment will typically require antibiotics and in some cases a dental procedure. If you are experiencing any type of persistent or recurring pain, it is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist for an evaluation.

2. Swelling Near a Tooth or a Soft Tissue Area

Swollen soft tissues or areas near a tooth in the mouth are common symptoms of a dental cyst or abscess. Both a dental cyst and abscess can cause pain and swelling in the jaw and mouth area. Painful inflamed gums, a bad taste in the mouth, fever, swelling of the tongue, and swelling of the jaw or face are all signs that you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.

In addition, difficulty opening your mouth, difficulty eating, and burning sensations can all point to a dental cyst or abscess. If left untreated, it can lead to a serious infection and can cause permanent damage to your teeth, gums, and mouth.

In any case, it is important to seek professional dental advice if you suspect that you are suffering from a dental abscess or cyst. The earlier one seeks help, the easier and faster the healing process could be.

3. Uncomfortable or Unusual Sensation When Biting or Chewing

One of the telltale signs of a dental cyst or abscess is an uncomfortable or unusual sensation when biting or chewing. This can manifest itself in many different ways, from an aching or throbbing discomfort that won’t go away to sensitivity to different temperatures of food.

If this sensation is experienced, it is essential to visit a dentist. Dental cysts and abscesses form because of an infection, and the infection can spread throughout the mouth if left untreated.

In addition to the uncomfortable or unusual sensation when biting or chewing, other signs include red or gum disease around a specific tooth, tenderness when touching the tooth, or increasing difficulty while biting or chewing. A dentist will be able to properly diagnose the problem and advise the patient on the best course of treatment.

Failure to get the issue addressed could lead to further damage to the mouth and permanent damage to the teeth.

4. Lump or Bump that is Filled with a Foul-Smelling Liquid

A lump or bump that is filled with a foul-smelling liquid may be a sign of a dental cyst or an abscess. Depending on the type of cyst or abscess, the lump or bump may be soft and filled with a foul-smelling liquid or it may be hard and solid.

Both can be painful and can cause pus to fill pockets or sacs in the area. One of the key signs of an abscess or cyst is the foul smell that is given off from the pus.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist can diagnose the type of cyst or abscess and provide the best treatment for your condition. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious complications, like the spread of infection, or even the loss of the affected tooth.

5. Unrelated General Symptoms Such as Fatigue, Headache, and Fever

Unrelated general symptoms such as fatigue, headache, and fever often indicate dental cysts or abscesses that require prompt medical attention by a dentist. Dental cysts are slowly growing areas that can form on the jawbone, near the roots of a tooth, or in the gums, and can lead to tooth decay, pain, and soft tissue swelling.

An abscess occurs when an area of the gums, teeth, or jaws becomes infected. It is accompanied by a fever, headache, and fatigue due to an elevation of white blood cells to combat the infection.

An abscess can also cause tooth sensitivity, bad breath, and the inability to open your mouth. If you have any of these symptoms, check out these dental services to seek advice from your dentist in order to prevent further complications.