Oral maladies can cause significant discomfort and distress. Two potential afflictions of the gum tissues that might require surgical intervention come in the form of an oral abscess or a dental cyst. It’s important to keep in mind that there are some distinct differences between the two. Their severity, location, and potential complications from infection will help determine the course of treatment advocated by Dr. Jeff DeMercy and Amanda Kossick. A dental cyst is often slow developing and can sometimes be benign in nature. It is a small pocket of fluid and inflammation that forms in the gums near a pre-emergent wisdom tooth or another tooth in distress. Sometimes the fluid in the cyst is sterile, yet it can still cause significant discomfort as well as painful inflammation in the gums. Less-severe cases might cause simple irritation without any other complications. Since dental cysts are often slow developing, the size, location, and potential infection will influence the treatment strategy your specialist advocates. In some cases, these cysts can abate through some simple lifestyle modifications and prescription medication. However, if a serious infection has formed or if you are experiencing significant discomfort, they might advocate surgical intervention. An abscess is often more serious than a dental cyst. It is typically an acute infection in the gums. Most are the result of untreated tooth decay allowing a bacterial presence to form in the local gum tissues. Sometimes a minor abscess can be treated with a course of prescription antibiotics. Unfortunately, if an abscess is large or if there is the potential of blood infection, Dr. Jeff DeMercy and Amanda Kossick might recommend a surgical extraction. If you are experiencing pain, pressure, or discomfort in your gums and you live in the Roswell, Georgia, area, you should call 770.641.8010 to have it diagnosed at DeMercy Dental.