Periodontal abscess is the third most frequent dental emergency,
representing 7–14% of all the dental emergencies. Numerous
aetiologies have been implicated: exacerbations of the existing
disease, post-therapy abscesses, the impaction of foreign objects,
the factors altering root morphology, etc.
The diagnosis is done by the analysis of the signs and symptoms
and by the usage of supplemental diagnostic aids. Evidences
suggest that the micro-flora which are related to periodontal abscesses
are not specific and that they are usually dominated by
gram-negative strict anaerobe, rods, etc.
The treatment of the periodontal abscess has been a challenge
for many years. In the past, the periodontal abscess in periodontal
diseased teeth was the main reason for tooth extraction.
Today, three therapeutic approaches are being discussed
in dentistry, that include, drainage and debridement, systemic
antibiotics and periodontal surgical procedures which are applied
in the chronic phase of the disease.
The localization of the acute periodontal abscess and the possibility
of obtaining drainage are essential considerations for successful
treatment.
Several antibiotics have been advocated to be prescribed in
case of general symptoms or if the complications are suspected.
Antibiotics like Penicillin, Metronidazole, Tetracyclines and
Clindamycin are the drugs of choice.
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