Dental abscess!
What is a dental abscess?
Also known as a tooth abscess, an abscess is a collection of pus that forms inside the tooth, in the gums (a periodontal abscess), or in the bone that holds the teeth in place. An abscess at the end of the tooth root is known as a periapical abscess.
Abscesses are caused by a bacterial infection and will not go away on their own. They can sometimes spread.
Symptoms of a dental abscess
- Intense, throbbing pain that can come on suddenly and gradually get worse.
- Pain that spreads from the tooth to your jaw, neck or ear.
- Pain that is worse when lying down and can disturb sleep.
- Redness and swelling of the face.
- Tender, discoloured or loose teeth.
- Shiny, red, swollen gums.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
How to relieve your symptoms
- Take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (if suitable for you), following the instructions on the pack.
- Avoid hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass, about 250ml, of warm water).
What to do if you have an abscess or suspect you have one
If you have or suspect you have an abscess, you need to see a dentist as soon as possible. Call us on 01922 624900 for an urgent appointment. Alternatively, call NHS 111 for advice on what to do until you can see a dentist, or for details of local services. If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, go to A&E immediately.
Treatment options for an abscess
- Draining the abscess to release the pus.
- Root canal treatment of the affected tooth.
- Extraction of the affected tooth.
- Antibiotics, only if the infection is spreading or you are unwell — they don't replace treatment of the tooth.
Worried you have a dental abscess?
A dental abscess will not clear up on its own and can spread. If you have facial swelling, a raised temperature, or pain that is keeping you awake, please contact us straight away — we aim to see urgent cases the same day where possible.
Call 01922 624900, book online, or read more about emergency dental appointments. If you are struggling to breathe or swallow, attend A&E immediately.
What our patients say
We had a dental home visit for my invalid partner who needed the root of a broken tooth removed. Given her age and condition, I was very anxious. In fact, everything went completely smoothly. The dentist (& team) were good listeners, gave good clear answers with time to think. I said at the time how reassuring they had been from…
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We had a dental home visit for my invalid partner who needed the root of a broken tooth removed. Given her age and condition, I was very anxious. In fact, everything went completely smoothly. The dentist (& team) were good listeners, gave good clear answers with time to think. I said at the time how reassuring they had been from the very start - the risks were explained but in perspective. My partner was quite calm and cooperative - I had been worried that she might suffer from shock but she has been fine. Phew! What a relief!
On Christmas day I broke my front tooth,searched around for a good dentist to give me two implant which I desperately needed. Went to this dentist and they were the only people with with CT scanner. Had my consultation here and scan and then went ahead with the implants.they seemed most professional and I can only say the job th…
Read full review
On Christmas day I broke my front tooth,searched around for a good dentist to give me two implant which I desperately needed. Went to this dentist and they were the only people with with CT scanner. Had my consultation here and scan and then went ahead with the implants.they seemed most professional and I can only say the job that is done is absolutely excellent 👌 and I will be using Dr Rikki Dhody and his team again. 💯 percent recommend them.
I had been suffering with pain for a few weeks from my wisdom tooth. But unable to get into my usual dental surgery for over a month.
Found an appointment for same day. And due to being anxious about dentist I was worried about going.
When I arrived the staff greeted me and eased my nerves.
During the consultant the dentist and …Read full review
I had been suffering with pain for a few weeks from my wisdom tooth. But unable to get into my usual dental surgery for over a month.
Found an appointment for same day. And due to being anxious about dentist I was worried about going.
When I arrived the staff greeted me and eased my nerves.
During the consultant the dentist and staff made me felt at ease. Went through each step and then went through treatment options. Needed to have the tooth removed. The nurse and dentist were amazing. Comforted me and also allowed to have my mum in the room with me. They went through the procedure with my and then my after care afterwards. I would definitely recommend to anywho is nervous about going to the dentist like me.
Ready to talk it through?
Book online or call — we'll give you clear options, prices up front, and no pressure.
Send us a message
Tell us what you need and we'll get back to you. For urgent pain or swelling, please call 01922 624900.