Lateral Peridontal Abscess

Salient features

  • Same as in acute periapical abscess often associated with bad taste. Tooth is usually mobile and tender on tooth percussion, with associated localized or diffuse swelling of the adjacent periodontium.
  • Vitality test usually positive if no associated pulpal problem.
  • Radiograph shows vertical or horizontal bone loss in relation to the tooth.

Treatment

Pharmacological

  1. Cap Amoxycillin 250-500 mg 3 times a day for 5 days
  2. Tab Metronidazole 400 mg 3 times a day for 5 days

For surgical treatment refer to a dentist for debridement of pocket and drainage of pus and irrigation with chlorhexidine. Spread of infection to be closely observed to prevent complications like Ludwig’s Angina.

Patient education

  • Maintenance of oral hygiene
  • No hot fomentation over the skin
  • Control of diabetes mellitus if present

References

  1. Ramford and Ash. Peridontology and Peridontics. In: Modern Therapy and Practice, 1st Indian edition AITBS Publishers 1996, pp 126
  2. Mitchell D A, Mitchell L. In: Oxford Handbook of Clinical Dentistry. 2nd edition, reprint 1996, pp 266.