A gum abscess, also known as a periodontal abscess, is a pocket of pus that forms in the tissues surrounding a tooth. It is a common complication of advanced periodontal disease and is caused by a bacterial infection. Squeezing or trying to drain a gum abscess on your own can actually make the problem worse. Here’s a look at what can happen if you squeeze a gum abscess and why you should avoid doing it.
Infection Can Spread
One of the biggest risks of squeezing a gum abscess is that it can force the pus and bacteria deeper into the tissues, spreading the infection further. The pus contains millions of bacteria that cause the abscess. When you apply pressure to the abscess, you risk pushing these infectious bacteria through the tissues, allowing the infection to spread to the jawbone, soft tissues, cheek, or even into the bloodstream in severe cases. This makes the problem much more serious.
More Damage to Surrounding Tissues
Squeezing an abscess also runs the risk of causing more damage to the surrounding gum tissues. These tissues are already inflamed and delicate from the abscess. Forcing pus out through them can tear the gum tissues, making the problem more painful. It can also damage the periodontal ligaments that surround the tooth root.
Abscess May Refill with Pus
The other issue is that squeezing out the pus does not get rid of the infection itself. The bacteria causing the abscess will still be present in the gum tissues and continue to cause inflammation. Without treatment, more pus is likely to collect in the abscess again within days or weeks. So while squeezing it may provide temporary relief, the abscess will quickly refill until the infection is properly treated.
Risk of Introducing New Bacteria
Attempting to squeeze or drain a gum abscess also poses the risk of introducing new bacteria into the infected area. If proper sterilization techniques are not followed, bacteria can be introduced from your fingers, tools used to drain it, saliva, or other sources. This adds to the infection and can make treatment more complicated.
It Will Not Eliminate the Need for Professional Treatment
Most importantly, squeezing out a gum abscess will not cure the problem or eliminate the need for professional treatment by a dentist. Since the infection is still present in the gum tissues after draining the pus, it will continue to cause destruction until properly treated. Trying to drain the abscess on your own simply buys time until you can see a dentist.
When to See a Dentist
If you have a gum abscess, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible for treatment. Signs you may have an abscess include:
- Throbbing, severe pain in the gums around a tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold around the tooth
- Fever
- Swollen, red, tender gums
- Bad breath
- An open sore on the gums that leaks pus
See your dentist immediately if you notice these signs of an abscess. Leaving it untreated allows the infection to worsen and spread. Prompt professional treatment is required to clear up the infection and save the tooth.
Professional Treatment Options
The dentist will first numb the area with local anesthesia before lancing and draining the abscess. This involves making a small incision to allow the pus to drain out. The dentist will also thoroughly flush the area with sterile saline to help remove bacteria and debris. From there, treatment may involve:
- Prescribing a course of antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection
- Performing a root canal treatment to remove infected pulp tissue and save the tooth
- Prescribe a medicated mouth rinse to keep the area clean
- Give tips for improved oral hygiene to prevent reinfection
- Extracting the tooth if it cannot be saved
Following your dentist’s treatment plan is vital for clearing up the gum abscess and preventing complications. Avoid squeezing the abscess on your own, as this can worsen the problem.
Prevention
Gum abscesses develop when periodontal disease causes deep gum pockets around the teeth. Bacteria collect in these pockets and cause infection. You can help prevent painful gum abscesses by:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Using antiseptic mouthwash
- Seeing the dentist for cleanings and checkups
- Having periodontal treatments to reduce gum pocket depth
Catching and treating gum infections early is key to preventing the formation of abscesses. Be sure to see your dentist if you notice any signs of gum infection such as red, swollen, painful gums.
Conclusion
Squeezing or trying to drain a gum abscess yourself is not recommended, as it can worsen the infection and spread bacteria deeper into the gum tissues. See a dentist as soon as possible for professional treatment if you suspect you have a gum abscess. Proper lancing, draining, antibiotics, and follow-up care are needed to clear up the infection and save the tooth. Avoid applying pressure to the abscess, which risks spreading the infection to surrounding tissues. With prompt treatment, most gum abscesses can be resolved without long-term complications.
References
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