A simple …show more content…
Though the symptoms will only manifest as a toothache, it’s only a matter of time before the infection spreads to the bloodstream setting off severe sepsis leading to death. Poor dental care has always been a critical issue, even in our modern world, and though abscesses can be treated, many go without treatment as many people do not understand that a simple toothache could have extremely destructive results.
An abscess is described as a lesion containing plus caused by an infection, usually bacterial. An incision and drainage (I&D) of an abscess is a procedure to cut the skin in order to remove (drain) pus from the abscess deep in the soft tissue. There are always risks when cutting the skin, such as a secondary infection if the site is not properly cleaned before and after the procedure, refilling of the abscess with infected pus if not all of the infection was drained, or the correct antibiotics were not taken as directed. Other risks include pain, excessive bleeding, tissue death due to compromised blood flow in affected area, and scar formation.
An I&D is performed by a licensed physician who has been trained to