Recognising the Signs of a Dental Abscess

Tooth pain can sometimes be mild and short-lived, but when it becomes constant, throbbing, or causes swelling in your face or gums, it could be something more serious, like a dental abscess.

A dental abscess is one of the more urgent dental emergencies that requires professional attention. It occurs when bacteria cause an infection inside or around the tooth, forming a pocket of pus. If not treated promptly, the infection can spread to nearby areas of your mouth, jaw, or worse, the bloodstream.

Let’s discuss more about the signs and symptoms of a dental abscess, what causes it, and why seeking dental care early can protect your health.

What Is a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a painful infection that develops due to a buildup of bacteria. It can appear in different parts of the tooth or gum:

• Periapical abscess: A periapical abscess forms at the tip of the tooth’s root (usually caused by tooth decay or trauma).
• Periodontal abscess: On the other hand, a periodontal abscess forms in the gums beside the tooth, often due to gum disease or trapped debris.

Regardless of where it starts, a dental abscess is a dental emergency that should not be ignored. It will not go away on its own, and while antibiotics may temporarily reduce pain or swelling, they don’t eliminate the underlying cause, which can only be assessed by a qualified dentist.

Why a Dental Abscess Is an Emergency

A dental abscess is considered a serious dental emergency when left untreated because the infection can spread to the surrounding bone, the soft tissues of the face and neck, or even into the bloodstream, causing more severe complications.

In some cases, an untreated abscess can lead to swelling that restricts breathing or swallowing, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

That’s why it’s crucial to contact your dentist as soon as you notice any dental abscess symptoms like swelling, severe pain, or pus. Early treatment can prevent further infection and protect your overall health.

What Causes a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess usually develops when bacteria enter the soft tissue or pulp inside a tooth. This can happen for several reasons, including:

• Untreated tooth decay: Cavities that reach deep into the tooth allow bacteria to infect the pulp.
• Cracked or chipped tooth: Damage to the enamel gives bacteria a pathway to enter.
• Failed dental work or large fillings: Old or leaking restorations can let bacteria in over time.
• Gum disease (periodontitis): Inflammation and deep gum pockets can trap bacteria and lead to abscess formation.
• Weakened immune system: Conditions like diabetes or certain medications can make it easier for infections to spread.

Common Dental Abscess Signs and Symptoms

Recognising dental abscess symptoms early can prevent complications and help save your tooth. Here are the most common signs of a tooth abscess to watch out for:

1. Persistent, Throbbing Toothache

The most obvious sign is a deep, continuous pain that may radiate to your jaw, ear, or neck. This pain often worsens when you lie down, chew, or apply pressure to the tooth.

2. Swelling of the Gums or Face

A dental abscess can cause visible swelling around the infected tooth or even in the cheek and jaw. In severe cases, it can lead to facial swelling and difficulty opening your mouth (a condition known as trismus).

3. Pimple or Bump on the Gums

You may notice a small, pus-filled bump near the affected tooth, which is sometimes called a gum boil or draining fistula. This bump may ooze pus and give off a foul taste in your mouth.

4. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

Lingering pain or sensitivity after eating or drinking hot or cold items can indicate an infection affecting the tooth’s nerve.

5. Bad Taste or Smell

When an abscess drains, you may experience a bad taste or foul odour, often caused by the release of pus and bacteria.

6. Swollen Lymph Nodes or Fever

Infections can trigger your immune system, causing swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck, and sometimes a fever or general feeling of tiredness.

7. Tooth Discolouration or Loose Tooth

A tooth that appears darker than the others may indicate nerve death, which can be associated with an abscess. The tooth may also feel slightly loose due to bone loss or infection around the root.

If you notice one or more of these dental abscess signs, call your dentist right away for an emergency visit. 

How Dentists Treat a Dental Abscess

Treatment depends on how severe the infection is and where it’s located. It will also depend on what underlying issues your oral health has before treatment. Here are some of the common steps our dentists do:

• Draining the Abscess – Your dentist may make a small incision to release pus and relieve pressure, which often brings immediate pain relief.
• Root Canal Treatment – If the infection is inside the tooth, a root canal removes the infected pulp and seals the tooth to stop bacteria from spreading.
• Tooth Extraction – If the tooth is too damaged to save, removing it may be the safest way to prevent further infection.
• Antibiotics (if needed) – Antibiotics may be prescribed to help control infection, but they don’t replace dental treatment.
• Follow-Up Care – Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups help prevent another abscess and keep your mouth healthy.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

A dental abscess will not heal by itself. That’s why recognising the signs and symptoms of a dental abscess early and seeking treatment from your dentist can save you from significant pain and potential health risks.

If you’re in Blackburn, VIC, and are dealing with severe tooth pain or suspect a dental abscess emergency, contact Whitehorse Dental for an emergency dental appointment. Our team provides prompt, gentle care to relieve pain and treat infections safely and effectively.

Schedule your visit to get an appointment. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the early signs of a dental abscess?

The most common early symptoms include a throbbing toothache, swelling in the gums or face, sensitivity to hot and cold, and a small pimple-like bump on the gums. These are signs of infection that should be checked by a dentist right away.

2. Can a dental abscess go away on its own?

No. A dental abscess will not heal without professional treatment. While pain may lessen temporarily if the abscess drains, the infection remains and can spread to other areas of the mouth or body if untreated.

3. What should I do if I think I have a dental abscess?

Contact your dentist immediately for an emergency appointment. Avoid pressing on the swelling or taking antibiotics without a prescription. If swelling spreads to your face or neck, or you have difficulty breathing, seek urgent medical care.

4. How is a dental abscess treated?

Treatment depends on how severe the infection is. Your dentist may drain the abscess, perform a root canal to remove infected tissue, or extract the affected tooth if it cannot be saved. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to control the infection.

5. How can I prevent a dental abscess in the future?

Good oral hygiene is key. Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit your dentist for routine check-ups. Treating cavities and gum problems early greatly reduces your risk of developing an abscess.