Periodontal abscess—the emergency in dental medicine (definition, classification, epidemiology, etiology, microbiology, pathogenesis and histopathology, pathophysiology)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Periodontal abscesses are the third most common dental emergency, following periapical and pericoronary abscesses. They are of utmost importance based on the need for urgent medical intervention, the deteriorating prognosis of the tooth involved, and the potential of rapid spread of infection.  

AIM:

The purpose of this study is to summarize the current information in the published literature regarding the definition, classification, epidemiology, etiology, microbiology, pathogenesis and histopathology, and pathophysiology of periodontal abscesses.

DISCUSSION:

The periodontal abscess is an acute localized infection due to invasion of pyogenic bacteria. Periodontal abscesses are classified based on their location (gingival and periodontal), duration of persistence (acute and chronic), and their number (single and multiple). This condition is more common in patients suffering from periodontitis, but a periodontal abscess can also occur in areas where periodontal pockets are not present, i.e., the cause of its development is different. The main microorganisms that are present are gram-negative anaerobic bacteria. Their invasion into the soft wall of the periodontal pocket is the beginning leading to the formation of a periodontal abscess. The majority of periodontal abscesses occur due to disruption of periodontal pocket drainage, which can occur in a variety of situations.

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, we can summarize that periodontal abscesses are of utmost importance based on the need for urgent medical intervention, the deteriorating prognosis of the tooth involved, and the potential of rapid spread of infection. Considering that it occurs relatively frequently in the clinical practice, it is necessary for dentists to be thoroughly familiar with the diagnosis of periodontal abscess.