What Is Seen in This Case

The image shows a severely broken tooth with dark decay and visible infection, located near the back of the mouth. The tooth structure is largely destroyed, and the surrounding gum tissue appears red, swollen, and irritated, which strongly suggests an active dental abscess.

This condition usually develops after long-term untreated tooth decay.

Most Likely Diagnosis

Based on visual examination, the most likely conditions include:

• Severe tooth decay

• Broken tooth exposing the nerve

• Dental abscess

• Chronic tooth infection

• High risk of spreading infection

Dental X-rays are required to confirm how far the infection has spread.

What Causes This Condition

Common causes include:

• Long-term untreated cavities

• Broken or fractured teeth

• Poor oral hygiene

• Delayed dental visits

• Old or failed dental restorations

Once bacteria reach the tooth nerve, infection builds pressure and forms an abscess.

Is This a Serious Problem

Yes. This is a serious dental infection. If untreated, it may scale up into:

• Severe and constant tooth pain

• Gum abscess with pus

• Facial or jaw swelling

• Fever and general illness

• Spread of infection to the jawbone

• Tooth loss

• Medical emergency in advanced cases

Immediate dental care is strongly recommended.

Recommended Treatment Process

Initial Assessment (Days 1–3)

• Dental examination

• Dental X-ray to evaluate infection depth

• Assessment of whether the tooth can be saved

Active Treatment Phase (Days 4–7)

Treatment may include:

• Drainage of the abscess

• Root canal treatment if the tooth is restorable

• Tooth extraction if the tooth is severely damaged

• Antibiotics if infection has spread

Healing and Follow-Up (Days 8–14)

• Pain and swelling should decrease

• Gum tissue begins to heal

• Monitoring for signs of remaining infection

Expected Healing Time

• Infection control: 3–7 days

• Gum healing after extraction or treatment: 7–14 days

Healing depends on early treatment and infection severity.

What Happens If Treatment Is Delayed

If delayed beyond 14 days, the condition may worsen and cause:

• Larger abscess formation

• Facial swelling

• Fever and fatigue

• Jawbone infection

• Increased treatment cost

• Serious health complications

Dental abscesses should never be ignored.

Home Care While Waiting for Treatment

These steps help reduce discomfort but do not cure the infection:

• Rinse gently with warm salt water

• Brush carefully around the area

• Avoid chewing on the affected side

• Avoid sugary foods and drinks

Seek dental care as soon as possible.

Professional Comment

This case shows advanced tooth destruction with active infection. Early treatment is critical to stop infection spread, relieve pain, and protect overall health.

Visit a Dental Clinic Near You

Find a nearby dental clinic using our directory:
https://cebudentalimplants.com/map-dental-clinic