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A dull not signifies abscess formation and a sharp note merely inflammation.
Palpation -
This simple test uses light pressure with the fingertip to examine tissue consistency and pain response.
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Although simple, it is an important test.
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Main features of the test are: i)
Helps in location of swelling over an involved tooth
ii)
Whether the tissue is fluctuant and enlarged sufficiently for incision and drainage.
iii)
The presence, intensity and location of pain
iv)
The presence and location of adenopathy i.e. Palpation of lymph nodes
v)
The presence of bone crepitus.
Note: During palpation of lymph nodes in the presence of an acute infection care must be assured to avoid the possible spread of infection through the lymphatic vessels. -
Diagnostically when posterior teeth are infected the submaxillary lymph nodes are involved and in lower anterior teeth infection submental lymph nodes are involved.
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