Tricks to reduce the swelling of the face due to a phlegmon

There are different methods to reduce swelling in the face due to a dental abscess, also known as a phlegmon. Dental abscesses are one of the most common pathologies, as well as painful and uncomfortable.

In the following lines, Dr. Daniel Tafur will explain what an abscess is and why it appears and what we can do to reduce the inflammation.

What is a dental abscess and what symptoms does it present?

A phlegmon is an inflammation that affects the dental gum and in 99% of the cases it appears as a consequence of an accumulation of tartar and bacterial plaque. It first affects the dental gum and then penetrates the pulp itself until it reaches the root of the tooth.

It is very important to treat the inflammation immediately before it attacks the maxillary bone. The main symptoms of phlegmon are:

  • Fever or headache
  • Generic discomfort
  • Halitosis
  • Throbbing pain in the affected area
  • Dental sensitivity
  • Difficulty eating and even opening the mouth.

Causes of tooth abscess

Usually the abscess appears when an infection occurs due to bacterial plaque, although the causes can be very varied:

  • Dental trauma
  • Caries that have not been treated
  • Periodontal diseases: gingivitis or periodontitis.

Can phlegmons be prevented?

The best way to prevent abscesses is to maintain proper daily dental hygiene. To do so, it is important to brush your teeth 2 to 3 times a day, use dental floss and mouthwashes. It is also advisable to visit the dentist at least a couple of times a year to prevent any oral disease.

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In fact, a phlegmon in time can be cured by a dental filling.

Natural remedies to eliminate inflammation

  • Perform mouthwashes with baking soda and salt. Both substances have highly antibacterial properties and thanks to the rinses you will be able to prevent the infection from spreading. To do this, pour a tablespoon of salt or baking soda in a glass of warm water and perform several rinses keeping the liquid in the mouth for 10-15 seconds. It is recommended to repeat the process 3 times a day.
  • Apple cider vinegar. This type of vinegar can help you to reduce dental pain thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect. To use it, just wet the tip of a cotton swab and apply it for a few minutes on the area to be treated. You can also perform rinses following the same process as above.
  • Echinacea or sage infusions. Sage has antiseptic properties, so you will notice that your phlegmon reduces its inflammation very quickly. Echinacea also has properties for our immune system and becomes a completely natural antibiotic.
  • Apply ice to the area. The last remedy and perhaps the best known is to apply ice on the area to be treated. It is a very effective method that manages to reduce inflammation. To do this, use a cloth or rag to wrap the ice and then apply it directly on the inflammation. In a few minutes you will see how the swelling is reduced.