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An abscess can be a very painful experience. Analgesics can be taken to soothe the pain. The most commonly indicated pain relievers are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They posses analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and do not contain cortisone. Ice can also be applied to the painful area to help relieve pain. Hot towels should never be applied, nor should the person be allowed to lie down. Lying down increases blood pressure in the head, which worsens the pain.
Antibiotics can be taken to fight the infection. The most widely used is penicillin, but erythromycin can be given to people who are allergic to penicillin. Antibiotics and pain relievers should be taken under the guidance of a physician.
The abscess heals as the pus clears. To promote drainage of the pus, gargle with salt water.
Dental care should always be sought for an abscess. The dentist usually drains the pus from the pulp or the gingival tissues. He or she will make an incision or small hole to allow drainage. This procedure relieves the pain almost immediately and is not painful.
With a dental abscess, it may be necessary to perform a root canal procedure to save the tooth. During this procedure the dentist may remove the infected pulp by drilling a small hole through the tooth's crown and into the pulp chamber, cleaning the infected area and filling the cavity with a restorative material. However, if the tooth structure is damaged, it has to be extracted.
In gingival abscess, after drainage, the dentist attempts to restore contact between the tooth and gums.
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