A dental fistula is an abnormal channel that forms in the mouth, allowing pus to drain. This channel provides a visible sign of an infection, most often appearing as a small bump on the gums. While it can temporarily relieve pressure, a dental fistula does not resolve the underlying issue. It is a clear indication that a deeper issue requires professional attention.
How Dental Fistulas Develop
Dental fistulas typically originate from an infection, most commonly a dental abscess, stemming from untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or dental trauma. Bacteria can invade and multiply within the tooth pulp or surrounding gum tissues, leading to a localized collection of pus known as an abscess. As this abscess grows, the accumulating pus creates pressure within the confined space.
The body’s natural response to this increasing pressure is to seek an exit route. This leads to the formation of a fistula through the bone and soft tissues to the surface of the gums, or sometimes even the skin. This drainage pathway allows the pus to escape, which can sometimes reduce the pain associated with the pressure buildup, but the underlying infection persists.
Identifying a Dental Fistula
A dental fistula often presents as a small, pimple-like bump on the gums, typically near the affected tooth. This bump may appear red, white, or yellowish, and it can occasionally rupture, releasing pus into the mouth. When drainage occurs, individuals might notice an unpleasant taste or bad breath.
While the fistula itself might not always be painful, the area around it can appear swollen or red. The underlying infection can still cause symptoms, such as sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or discomfort when chewing. In some instances, the pain from the original abscess might radiate to the ear or neck, and swelling of facial lymph nodes or even a fever can occur.
Treatment and Its Significance
Treating a dental fistula requires addressing the underlying infection, as simply draining the pus or treating the visible bump will not resolve the source. The specific treatment depends on the source of the infection. For infections originating within a tooth, such as a periapical abscess, root canal therapy is performed to remove the infected pulp, disinfect the tooth’s interior, and seal it to prevent further contamination.
If the fistula is due to advanced gum disease, periodontal treatment, including deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing, is necessary to remove bacteria and tartar from below the gum line. In more severe cases, surgical intervention or tooth extraction may be required. Antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection, though they are not a standalone solution.
Prompt treatment of a dental fistula is important to prevent serious complications. Left unaddressed, the infection can spread beyond the initial site, leading to bone loss in the jaw or even systemic infections that affect other parts of the body. Untreated infections can result in chronic pain, recurrent abscesses, and in severe cases, life-threatening conditions like sepsis. Seeking professional dental care ensures the infection is properly eliminated, alleviating symptoms and safeguarding overall health.