According to the American Dental Association, a gum abscess is a “pus-filled bacterial infection at the base of a tooth.” They are fairly common and can be quite painful. They’re usually caused by bacteria that gets into your gums through a crack in your tooth or a deep cavity.
If you have a gum abscess, you might notice swelling in your gums, bad breath, or pain when you chew. If you think you may have a gum abscess, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, here is a helpful guide from your friendly neighborhood dental hygienist.
There are three general stages of a gum abscess
There are generally three stages to a gum abscess: the initial infection, the growth of the abscess, and finally, the rupture of the abscess.
Stage 1
The initial infection usually occurs when bacteria enters the tooth through a crack or hole. The bacteria then begins to multiply, causing an infection at the base of the tooth. This initial infection can be quite painful. You may experience throbbing pain, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and swelling in your gums.
Stage 2
If left untreated, the infection will grow and an abscess will form. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms around the tooth. At this stage, you will likely experience even more pain and swelling. The affected area may also be red and tender to the touch.
Stage 3
If the abscess ruptures, you may notice a release of pus. This can cause a bad taste in your mouth and make it difficult to swallow. You may also develop a fever at this stage.
Which essential oils can help with a gum abscess?
There are a few different essential oils that can be used to help with a gum abscess. One of the most popular options is tea tree oil. This oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and speed up healing. Another option is eucalyptus oil, which has similar effects.
Peppermint oil can also be helpful in providing pain relief. To use any of these oils, simply dilute them with a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply them to the affected area with a cotton ball. You can do this several times per day until the abscess heals.
Here is an excellent quality organic peppermint oil that can help heal a gum abscess:
Plant Therapy Organic Peppermint Essential Oil 100% Pure
Why we love Plant Therapy Peppermint Essential Oil:
- Certified Organic
- Undiluted
- Pure
- Natural aromatherapy
- Pure antibacterial properties
- Highly rated on Amazon
Applying Tea Tree Oil and diluting with water helps heal a gum abscess.
Applying tea tree oil to a gum abscess can help to reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process. To use tea tree oil, mix equal parts water and tea tree oil. Then, using a cotton swab, apply the mixture to the affected area. Leave it on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. You can do this several times a day until the abscess has healed.
For best results, be sure to use a high-quality tea tree oil that’s 100% pure and organic like this tea tree oil
Cliganic Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil, 100% Pure Natural, for Aromatherapy
Eucalyptus Oil is also very effective at speeding up the healing process of a gum abscess. Be sure that you get one that is steam distilled, organic, non-GMO and not diluted like this one:
Veda Tinda Eucalyptus Essential Oil, 100% Pure Nature Organic Eucalyptus
Concluding Thoughts
If you think you may have a gum abscess, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, brushing and flossing regularly, rinsing with salt water and essential oils, and applying ice to the affected area can help alleviate some of the pain and swelling.
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