Dental fistula is one of the most common and annoying conditions that our patients may suffer from. In today’s article we will see how to treat them.
I have a lump on my gum, what is it?
This is a dental fistula, or periapical abscess, is an accumulation of pus in a periodontal tissue, which can open and generate a pathway for the pus to exit, causing pain. In other words, it is a small lump that appears on the gums or even on the roof of the mouth.
This type of affectation, of infectious origin, is caused by a bacterial infection.
What are the symptoms of dental fistula?
The main symptom of dental fistula is a sharp, penetrating pain in the affected gum and swelling of the tissue, although there may be other signs related to the problem.
For example, a bitter taste in the mouth, inflammation of tissues close to the area where the fistula has occurred, dental sensitivity or even fever, since let us remember that the appearance of the abscess has its origin in a bacterial disease.
What should I do with a dental fistula?
The first thing to do is to stop the infection so that the problem that is causing the fistula disappears. To do this, it is best to visit the dental clinic so that our team can examine the abscess.
What is the cause of a dental fistula?
The main cause of a dental fistula is deep or poorly healed caries. The same bacteria that cause caries can also spread and attack the inside of the tooth, reaching the dental pulp.
Another common cause is periodontal disease. Periodontitis that has not been treated in time can lead to serious dental health problems, including dental abscess.
They can also be caused by poorly performed root canals or problems related to wisdom teeth.
How is a dental fistula cured?
As we have seen, the process to cure a dental fistula first involves solving the underlying problem, that is, the bacterial infection that is causing the abscess.
Afterwards, we will perform an X-ray and a review to determine the extent of this abscess.
Finally, the most recommended treatment to eliminate a dental fistula is endodontics to drain the area and prescribe medication.
Endodontics involves performing a deep cleaning treatment of the affected area to remove any tissue that may have been affected.
In our dental clinic we are specialists in this type of treatment and we have a 3D microscope that allows us to perform them with great precision.
After this procedure, our dentists in Barcelona will schedule a new revision with a treatment plan to follow the evolution of the dental fistula.
What is the postoperative period for a dental fistula?
For the first few hours, cold can be applied to the affected area to reduce swelling.
Normally after a procedure of this type, the patient has to be careful with the food he/she eats, so as not to irritate the treated area.
As a general rule, it is also advisable to avoid the consumption of tobacco, alcohol and foods with a strong taste, such as spicy or acidic foods, so that the area does not become irritated.
After a few days, the treated area will regenerate naturally and the patient will be able to eat normally again, although it is very likely that the patient will have to stop taking medication in the following days and reinforce the cleaning with mouthwashes.
Can a dental abscess be prevented?
As we say in the Dental Clinic Barcelona prevention is the best weapon to fight against many of the main dental infections.
Proper oral hygiene, daily flossing, brushing after every meal, regular check-ups and putting your smile in the hands of experienced staff are some of the best ideas to prevent dental fistula from occurring.
