02/08/2025
❇️ Gingival Abscess:
A gingival abscess is a localized, painful, purulent infection of the soft gum (gingival) tissue,
usually occurring in the marginal gingiva or interdental papilla and not involving the tooth or deeper periodontal tissues.
It typically results from the impaction of foreign bodies (such as popcorn hulls or toothbrushing trauma) into the gingiva.
❇️ Periapical Abscess:
A periapical abscess is a collection of pus at the apex (tip) of a tooth root, caused by a bacterial infection spreading from the dental pulp.
It often results from untreated dental caries (tooth decay), deep restorations, or trauma leading to pulp necrosis, and represents the most common form of dental abscess.
The infection is located in the periapical tissues and is generally associated with a non-vital (dead) tooth.
❇️ Periodontal Abscess:
A periodontal abscess is a localized accumulation of pus within the periodontal tissues (supporting structures of the tooth), involving the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.
It typically occurs in a site with a pre-existing periodontal pocket as a result of bacterial invasion, often following the impaction of food debris, incomplete removal of calculus, or closure of a periodontal pocket.
Affected teeth are usually vital, and the abscess causes rapid swelling, pain, and tenderness to chewing.
