What Is a Tooth Abscess?
A tooth abscess, also called a dental abscess, is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection inside the tooth, gum, or surrounding bone. It’s the body’s way of responding to infection, and while it might start as a dull ache, it can quickly become one of the most painful dental emergencies.
Dental abscesses usually form when bacteria invade the inner layers of a tooth through a crack, deep cavity, or gum pocket. Once bacteria reach the pulp (the tooth’s nerve and blood supply), the infection causes inflammation and pus buildup, creating pressure and swelling.
There’s various types of tooth abscesses:
- Periapical abscess: Forms at the base of the tooth root due to deep decay or trauma.
- Periodontal abscess: Develops in the gums beside a tooth, often linked to gum disease.
- Gingival abscess: A smaller infection limited to the gum surface, usually from a lodged foreign object (like a popcorn husk).
Signs and Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess doesn’t go unnoticed for long. Signs include:
- Severely painful, throbbing toothache that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck
- Swelling of the gums, face, or jaw
- Tender lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A bad taste in the mouth or sudden drainage of pus
- Fever or general feeling of illness
In severe cases, swelling can spread to other areas of the face or even the airway, which requires urgent medical attention.
What Causes a Tooth Abscess?
Several dental issues can lead to an abscess:
- Untreated Tooth Decay – Cavities allow bacteria to reach deep inside the tooth.
- Gum Disease (Periodontitis) – Infected gums can create deep pockets where bacteria multiply.
- Cracked or Chipped Teeth – Even small fractures can give bacteria a pathway into the pulp.
- Previous Dental Work – Old dental fillings or dental crowns that don’t seal properly may let bacteria in.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Skipping regular brushing, flossing, or dental cleanings increases bacterial buildup.
How a Tooth Abscess Is Treated
Treatment focuses on clearing the infection and relieving pain. Depending on the severity and location, your dentist may recommend:
- Draining the abscess: Your dentist will make a minor incision to release pus and reduce pressure.
- Root canal treatment: The infected dental pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed to save it from extraction.
- Extraction: If the tooth is too damaged to repair, it may need to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading.
- Antibiotics: Used to control or prevent the infection from spreading, especially if there’s swelling beyond the abscess site.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain or discomfort for a short time, but a dental abscess will not heal or resolve on its own, professional dental care is essential.
How to Prevent Dental Abscesses
Most abscesses are preventable with consistent oral hygiene and routine dental care. To reduce your risk:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss at least daily to remove food and dental plaque between teeth
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Treat cavities, gum disease, or cracked teeth promptly
A tooth abscess is a serious sign that infection has reached deep into your tooth or gums. The pain might start small, but it can escalate quickly without proper treatment. If you experience swelling, fever, or a severe toothache, see your dentist right away. Early treatment not only relieves pain but can also save your tooth and protect your overall health. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or consultation.