Patho Physiology, Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, Treatment and Prognosis of Dental Abscess

Dental infections, while relatively straightforward regarding diagnosis and access, can be challenging to manage in an acute manner. Dental abscesses or periapical infections arise in a typical manner secondary to dental caries (tooth rot related to poor dental hygiene), trauma, or failed dental root canal treatment. Left untreated, these infections can be painful in an extreme manner and pose a significant risk of descending into the deep neck space or ascending to intracranial sinuses. A tooth abscess can be identified, treated, and patients educated to alleviate symptoms and prevent serious consequences. The role of the interprofessional team in patient care is highlighted in this exercise, which also explains if this ailment should be taken into consideration for differential diagnosis and how to properly diagnose it.