Tooth abscess: signs, why it is serious and how it is treated

A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by an infection. It can form at the tip of a tooth root or in the gum beside a tooth. It is one of the dental problems that should not be left.

What are the signs?

• Severe, throbbing pain that may spread to the jaw, ear or neck
• A swollen gum, or a bump on the gum that may leak pus
• A swollen face or cheek
• A bad taste in the mouth or bad breath
• Pain when you bite, or a tooth that feels raised
• Fever, or tender lumps under the jaw

Some abscesses cause little pain.

Why does it happen?

Bacteria get into the tooth through a deep cavity, a crack or an injury, or into the gum through gum disease. The body tries to fight them, and pus collects. See signs of a cavity and gum disease.

What if the pain suddenly stops?

Sometimes an abscess bursts and the pain eases. That does not mean it has healed. The infection is usually still there and can come back. Get it checked.

Will it go away by itself?

No. Home care can ease the pain for a while, but the source of the infection has to be treated.

How is it treated?

The dentist examines the tooth, usually takes an X-ray, and treats the cause:

• Draining the pus, so that pressure and pain ease.
• Root canal treatment to clean the infected inside of the tooth, so that it can be kept. See root canal treatment explained.
• Removing the tooth, if it cannot be saved.
• Antibiotics only in some cases, when the dentist or doctor decides they are needed. They do not replace treating the tooth. Do not take them without advice.

When it is an emergency

Go the same day, or to a hospital emergency department, if the swelling spreads to the face, eye or neck, or if you have a fever or trouble swallowing, breathing or opening your mouth. A spreading infection can become serious quickly. Read dental emergency: when to go today.

What can you do until your appointment?

Rinse gently with warm salt water, keep the area clean and use a cold pack on the cheek. See toothache at night. Do not squeeze the bump or put anything on it.

Treatment is available at both our clinics, in Sayan and on Chhaprabhatha-Variyav Road. Use the booking button below to ask for an appointment.