Burst Dental Abscess - Awaiting Surgical Consultation
Greetings! I am a 20-year-old female, standing at 5'2" and weighing 103 lbs. My current medications include Abilify, Duloxetine, hydrochlorothiazide, and Vitamin D3 (5000 units). I underwent the extraction of six wisdom teeth on August 29th, as they were the source of persistent headaches and discomfort. Specifically, I had two on the upper arch and one on the lower arch on each side. Initially, my recovery progressed smoothly; I adhered strictly to a no-chew diet and practiced diligent oral hygiene. After a follow-up appointment with my surgeon last week, everything appeared to be healing effectively. However, I woke up yesterday morning to some swelling returning to my left lower jaw and an intensification of pain after brushing my teeth. At first, I thought this might be a result of being too vigorous during my cleaning routine. By evening, I was alarmed to see that my face had swollen to a level reminiscent of the second day post-surgery. Pain escalated through the night, prompting a late-night visit to the emergency room due to my inability to fully close my jaw. I also recorded a mild fever of 99.5°F alongside a headache on the affected side. While there was no pus or unpleasant odor, my cheek and gum area were clearly swollen and irritated. The ER staff administered Augmentin and Percocet, advising me to see my surgeon the following morning. Fast forward to 4:45 AM, and sleep had eluded me as the Percocet offered only minimal relief from the pain. While shifting my neck, I foolishly tried to bite down and was immediately met with a rush of metallic bitterness in my mouth. Rushing to the bathroom, I ended up spitting out about a teaspoon of a greenish-grey substance mixed with blood. Surprisingly, I found that I could now close my mouth with less pain and felt some alleviation of the intense pressure that had plagued me. However, the dull ache in my jaw remains. I intend to meet with my surgeon at the soonest opportunity but have a few questions. Given that the pouch I assume contained pus has burst, should I be concerned about the potential spread of infection? After performing a saltwater rinse, is it advisable to brush my teeth again? Could what I experienced indeed be classified as a burst abscess? Any insights or guidance on these matters would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Answers (1)
9/11/2025, 12:20:53 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned in this situation, especially considering the symptoms you've experienced after your wisdom teeth extraction. Let's break down the key points:
Key Points:
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Concerns About Infection Spread: A burst dental abscess can potentially allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, but since you've experienced some symptom relief, this is a positive indication. However, it’s crucial to monitor for any worsening symptoms.
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Oral Hygiene: After rinsing with saltwater, be careful while brushing. Gentle techniques can help maintain hygiene without exacerbating irritation.
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Potentials for Burst Abscess: What you experienced does sound like a burst abscess, which can happen post-extraction, especially if there’s been an underlying infection.
Explanation
An abscess occurs when bacteria infect a tooth root or the surrounding gum tissue, leading to pus accumulation. When it bursts, it might relieve pressure and pain temporarily but can also signal that the infection is still present. Your fever and swelling suggest there might still be underlying issues requiring attention, even with the recent drainage.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms such as fever intensity, swelling, and pain. If these worsen despite your current medications, increase your vigilance.
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Continue Saltwater Rinses: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day to help clean the area and reduce irritation. Wait at least 30 minutes after rinsing before brushing to soften the gum tissue.
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Brush Gently: When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be very gentle around the affected area. Avoid vigorous scrubbing which can aggravate swollen or sensitive spots.
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Manage Pain: If Percocet is not providing sufficient relief, consider alternating between that and an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (if you have no contraindications). Always follow the recommended dosages.
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Follow Up with Your Surgeon: Ensure you attend your surgical consultation as soon as possible. Discuss your symptoms in detail, including the burst drainage, the fever, and pain levels.
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Consider Keeping Hydrated: Maintain good hydration, which can help your body recover and support healing.
Please remember, your care team is best positioned to provide tailored advice, and updates on your condition during your follow-up will be crucial for the next steps in your treatment. Wishing you a smooth recovery!
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