Dealing with Abscess Under Dental Bridge: Pain Relief and Treatment Options

Abscess at the site of a dental bridge?

Hello Dr.
Tseng, I had a dental bridge placed over a year ago on teeth 14, 15, and 16.
Currently, I am in France.
A few days ago, I suddenly started experiencing tooth pain, and later my gums became swollen.
I researched online and found out that it might be an abscess, and due to the severe pain, I suspect it is caused by decay in the tooth beneath the bridge leading to inflammation.
I took some leftover antibiotics I had and scheduled an appointment with a dentist for Monday.
In addition to taking X-rays, the dentist examined my teeth and found two abscesses.
He also provided me with an estimate for treatment and replacing the bridge, which totals 3,500 euros, equivalent to over a hundred thousand New Taiwan dollars.
I really cannot afford that.
Is it possible for me to remove the bridge myself? I just want to alleviate the abscesses first, and I believe treatment in Taiwan would be more affordable.
Otherwise, I am in a lot of pain here and unable to do anything, and I am also worried about the infection spreading.
Thank you!

Miu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/22

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The above situation is likely due to an infection or inflammation of the gum tissue around the dental bridge, or it could be that there is decay in the teeth within the bridge.
If the antibiotics taken are not effective, it may be necessary to completely remove the dental bridge, undergo periodontal treatment, and wait for the gum inflammation to improve before making a new bridge.
It is advisable to consult a dentist for further treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/03/22

More Info

Dealing with an abscess under a dental bridge can be a challenging situation, especially when it involves pain and financial constraints for treatment. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing significant discomfort due to an infection, likely stemming from decay or other issues beneath the dental bridge. Here are some insights and recommendations regarding your situation.

Understanding the Problem
An abscess is a localized collection of pus that can occur due to bacterial infection. In your case, the presence of two abscesses beneath the dental bridge suggests that there may be underlying issues with the supporting teeth (14, 15, and 16) or the bridge itself. The pain and swelling of the gums are indicative of inflammation and infection, which can arise from untreated decay, periodontal disease, or complications from previous dental work.

Immediate Steps for Pain Relief
1. Antibiotics: Since you have already started taking antibiotics, it is crucial to complete the course as prescribed by your dentist. Antibiotics can help reduce the infection and alleviate some of the pain.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Make sure to follow the recommended dosages.

3. Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe the gums and may assist in reducing swelling. It can also help keep the area clean.

4. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help numb the area and reduce swelling.

Considering Self-Removal of the Dental Bridge
While the idea of removing the dental bridge yourself may seem appealing to alleviate pain, it is generally not advisable. Here are a few reasons why:
- Risk of Injury: Attempting to remove the bridge without professional help can lead to injury to your gums, teeth, or jawbone, potentially worsening the situation.

- Infection Spread: If the bridge is removed improperly, it could lead to the spread of infection to other areas of your mouth or body.

- Complications: There may be underlying issues that need to be addressed by a professional, such as root canal treatment or extraction of affected teeth.

Seeking Professional Help
Given the complexity of your situation, it is essential to seek professional dental care. Here are some options to consider:
1. Consult a Local Dentist: If you are in France and experiencing severe pain, it is advisable to consult another dentist for a second opinion. They may offer different treatment options or payment plans that could be more manageable.

2. Return to Taiwan: If you believe that dental care in Taiwan is more affordable, consider scheduling an appointment with your dentist there as soon as possible. However, ensure that you have a plan to manage the infection and pain until you can receive treatment.

3. Emergency Dental Services: If the pain becomes unbearable or if you experience fever, swelling in the face, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency dental services immediately.

Conclusion
In summary, while it may be tempting to try to resolve the issue on your own, it is crucial to approach this situation with caution. Managing an abscess under a dental bridge requires professional intervention to ensure that the underlying causes are addressed effectively. Continue taking your antibiotics, manage your pain, and seek professional dental care as soon as possible to prevent further complications. Your health and well-being should always be the priority.

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