What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is a collection of pus that forms as a result of a bacterial infection in or around a tooth. It is a painful condition that can develop quickly and requires prompt emergency dental treatment. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, making this a serious health concern.
At Orion Dental, our Scarborough and Milton offices provide urgent care for patients with dental abscesses. If you suspect you have an abscess, contact us as soon as possible.
What Types of Dental Abscess Are There?
There are three main types of dental abscesses, classified by where the infection forms:
- Periapical abscess: This forms at the tip of the tooth's root. It typically develops when bacteria enter the pulp (nerve) of the tooth through untreated decay, a crack, or a chip. This is the most common type
- Periodontal abscess: This forms in the gum tissue beside the tooth root. It is often associated with gum disease and can also result from food or debris becoming trapped in the gum pocket
- Gingival abscess: This forms on the surface of the gum tissue, usually from a foreign object (such as a popcorn kernel or broken toothpick) becoming embedded in the gums
What Are the Symptoms of a Dental Abscess?
Dental abscesses can produce a range of symptoms. You should seek prompt dental care if you experience:
- Severe, persistent, or throbbing tooth pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck
- Pain or sensitivity when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling in the face, cheek, or under the jaw
- Red, tender, or swollen gums
- A visible bump or pimple-like swelling on the gum (which may release foul-tasting fluid when it ruptures)
- Fever
- Swollen or tender lymph nodes in the neck or under the jaw
- A sudden bad taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath
What to Do Immediately If You Suspect an Abscess
A dental abscess will not resolve without professional treatment. While waiting for your appointment, these steps can help manage symptoms:
- Call our office: Contact Orion Dental immediately to schedule an emergency appointment
- Rinse with salt water: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) several times a day. This can help draw the infection toward the surface and provide some pain relief
- Take over-the-counter pain relief: Ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling. Follow the directions on the packaging
- Avoid hot and cold: Stick to lukewarm foods and beverages to avoid triggering additional pain
- Do not attempt to drain it: Squeezing or poking the abscess can push the infection deeper or spread it to other areas
Seek hospital emergency care immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or swallowing, significant facial swelling (especially around the eyes or floor of the mouth), high fever, or confusion. These can be signs that the infection is spreading and may be life-threatening.
How Is a Dental Abscess Treated?
The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection, drain the pus, relieve pain, and preserve the tooth when possible. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the abscess.
Draining the Abscess
The dentist may make a small incision in the abscess to allow the pus to drain. The area is then cleaned with saline solution. This provides immediate relief from pressure and pain.
Root Canal Treatment
For a periapical abscess, root canal treatment is often the recommended course of action. The dentist removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and fills and seals the tooth. A crownis typically placed afterward to restore the tooth's strength.
Periodontal Treatment
For a periodontal abscess, the dentist will drain the abscess and clean the affected gum pocket. Periodontal therapy may be recommended to address underlying gum disease and prevent recurrence.
Tooth Extraction
If the tooth is too severely damaged to be restored, extraction may be necessary. After the tooth is removed, the abscess is drained. Replacement options such as dental implants or a bridge can be discussed once the area has healed.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may be prescribed if the infection has spread beyond the immediate area of the abscess, if you have a weakened immune system, or if there is significant facial swelling. Antibiotics are used alongside — not instead of — dental treatment.
What Causes Dental Abscesses?
Dental abscesses develop when bacteria invade the dental pulp or gum tissue. Common causes include:
- Untreated tooth decay: Deep cavities that penetrate through the enamel and dentin allow bacteria to reach the pulp
- Cracked or chipped teeth: Damage to the tooth can create pathways for bacteria to enter
- Gum disease: Advanced periodontal disease creates deep pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria can accumulate
- Previous dental work: Older or damaged fillings, crowns, or other restorations can sometimes allow bacteria to reach the inner tooth
- Injury: Trauma to a tooth can damage the pulp, even if there is no visible crack
How Can You Prevent a Dental Abscess?
The risk of developing a dental abscess can be significantly reduced with consistent oral care:
- Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food from between teeth
- Attend regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Have cavities filled promptly — a small filling can prevent a much larger problem
- Address gum disease at its earliest stages
- Limit sugary foods and beverages
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
- Do not smoke — smoking weakens the immune system and contributes to gum disease
Dental Abscess Treatment at Orion Dental
If you suspect you have a dental abscess, prompt treatment is essential. Contact our Scarborough office at 416-291-0306 or our Milton office at 905-636-9770. You can also request an appointment online. Do not wait for the pain to resolve on its own — dental abscesses require professional treatment.