Pus in the gums is closely related to a condition called dental abscess and can be preceded by periodontal disease. Abscesses cannot heal by themselves, medical treatment is carried out to dry the abscess, disinfect with germs, make canals to the roots of the teeth, until pulling the infected teeth.
Pus is a thick liquid containing dead tissue, cells, and bacteria. Pus is generally yellowish white, greenish, yellow or brownish yellow, and sometimes smells foul. The emergence of pus because certain areas become inflamed when an infection occurs. This inflammatory reaction is the body's natural reaction to fight infection.
Causes of Pus in the gums
Pus in the gums usually comes from a tooth abscess. Abscesses are generally caused by bacterial infections and cause throbbing pain. Poorly maintained oral hygiene and lack of care of the teeth, make cavities easily and are infected with bacteria. The growth of bacteria that is left will cause infections in the teeth. This infection will spread to the area around the gums and pus collection will occur.
Bacterial infections can occur in the gums, tooth roots, and bone supporting teeth. Infection or inflammation in the tissues around the teeth that cause gum disease, can also be a cause of the appearance of pus in the gums. Gum disease often causes the gums to be a little detached from the teeth, so that formed pockets that can be filled with bacteria and develop to form abscesses.
Periodontal abscesses can also develop as a complication of injury to the gums or tissue around the tooth, which causes injury. Wounds on the gums are susceptible to infection, because food or dirt that is involved and embedded in the gums can make germs thrive.
People with weakened immune systems, suffer from diabetes, or are undergoing chemotherapy treatment, are more prone to dental abscesses and the appearance of pus on the gums.
Treating pus on the gums
If the pain is unbearable, you can take pain relievers such as paracetamol which can be purchased freely. However, some people need stronger painkillers and can only be obtained by prescription from a doctor. After the pus has dried, generally the symptoms that are complained about will soon disappear.
Pus on the gums can be treated by draining pus from the gums to dry by piercing an abscess or by making a small hole in the tooth so that pus can flow out. After that, it is also necessary to clean the pus bag on the gum. This step must certainly be done by a dentist. The dentist may also prescribe oral antibiotics that must be taken for several days to overcome the overall infection. If the pus has not disappeared and the abscess does not heal within a few days, it is advisable to immediately consult a dentist again.
To prevent pus bags from bursting, avoid consuming hot or cold foods and drinks that can make the pain worse. Eat soft foods, and chew food using the side of the mouth that is not infected. Don't forget to use a soft toothbrush and avoid dental flossing on the area of the teeth and gums that are infected or have pus on the gums.
Meanwhile, if the abscess ruptures before you get to the dentist, immediately rinse with warm water to clean the mouth while pushing out pus until completely.
Possible Complications
Pus on the gums that does not get proper treatment can trigger several possible complications, such as the formation of a channel between the site of infection with the skin or mouth that can produce pus continuously.
In addition, pus on the gums that are not handled properly can also trigger sinusitis, cavities filled with fluid in the teeth (dental cysts), as well as bone infections near infected gums.
It is important to see a dentist immediately if there is pus in the gums or if you find an abscess in the mouth. In addition to treating, also to prevent complications.
Prioritize Prevention
Pus on the gums caused by an abscess can be avoided by maintaining good oral hygiene. Get used to brush your teeth regularly, and if necessary, also do flossing using dental floss or dental floss.
Maintaining oral hygiene also includes cleaning the tongue and adopting a healthy diet. Avoid consuming drinks or foods that contain high sugar and stop smoking, are some actions that can improve oral health.
If the teeth appear damaged or there is pus on the gums, consult a dentist immediately, so that appropriate treatment can be given to prevent dangerous complications. Also do a routine dental check up at least once every year.
