Classification of Dental Abscess - Periapical abscess: Chronic, localised infection at the root tip of a tooth. - Periodontal abscess: Begins in a periodontal pocket. - Gingival abscess: Affects only the gum tissue. - Pericoronal abscess: Involves the soft tissues around the tooth crown. - Combined periodontic-endodontic abscess: Combination of periapical and periodontal abscess.

Signs and Symptoms of Dental Abscess - Continuous, extreme, and growing pain. - Sensitivity to touch and possible swelling. - Swelling at the base of the tooth, gum, or cheek. - Abscess may be painless but with gum swelling. - Possible lymph gland swelling and tender neck.

Complications of Dental Abscess - Severe abscess may perforate bone and extend into soft tissue. - External drainage through boil or intraoral fistula. - Internal drainage leads to tissue space infection. - Severe complications include Ludwigs angina and mediastinal infection. - Risk of sepsis, endocarditis, brain abscess, or meningitis.

Diagnostic Methods for Dental Abscess - Differentiating between periodontal and periapical abscess. - Location of swelling determines the type of abscess. - Periodontal abscess discharges via periodontal pocket. - Periapical abscess drains via a parulis near the tooth apex. - Tooth condition and history of toothache help in diagnosis.

Treatment of Dental Abscess - Reduction and elimination of offending organisms. - Treatment with antibiotics and drainage. - Improvement in antibiotic prescribing practices. - Root canal treatment or extraction if necessary. - Follow-up care and preventive measures.