Dental Abscess

What Is Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, usually originating from an untreated cavity, cracked tooth, or gum disease. There are two main types: periapical abscess (at the tooth root tip) and periodontal abscess (in the gum). Abscesses cause significant pain, swelling, and sometimes fever. Left untreated, the infection can spread to the jaw, neck, or brain — a potentially life-threatening situation.

How It Works

The dentist diagnoses an abscess with examination and X-rays. Treatment involves draining the abscess, eliminating the infection source (root canal or extraction), and prescribing antibiotics. Antibiotics alone do not cure an abscess — the source must be removed.

Key Benefits

• Eliminates dangerous infection before it spreads
• Pain relief occurs rapidly after drainage
• Root canal treatment can save an abscessed tooth
• Antibiotics prescribed to address any spreading infection

Frequently Asked Questions