Dental Did You Know: Dental Infections Part 4...The Three Stages of Infection (Abscess)

Having an abscess is the third stage of dental infection and it usually happens between days 4-10. It is characterized by:

1. mild, localized discomfort 
2. usually fluctuant and tender to touch
3. pus is present
4. skin is usually red in the periphery

The bacteria species involved are generally anaerobic (oxygen hating)

Source: Gregoire C, How are Odontogenic Infections Best Managed?, JCDA, April 2010, Vol 76, No 2, pg 114-116

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100