Tooth abscess

Treatment

Treatments for a dental abscess

Dental abscesses are treated by removing the source of the infection and draining away the pus.

Depending on the location of the abscess and how severe the infection is, possible treatments include:

removing the affected tooth (extraction) this may be necessary if root canal treatment isn't possible
root canal treatment a procedure to remove the abscess from the root of an affected tooth before filling and sealing it
incision and drainage where a small cut (incision) is made in the gum to drain the abscess (this is usually only a temporary solution and further treatment may be needed)

Local anaesthetic will usually be used to numb your mouth for these procedures. More extensive operations may be carried out under general anaesthetic (where you're asleep).

Antibiotics aren't routinely prescribed for dental abscesses, but may be used if the infection spreads or is particularly severe.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016

Articles for tooth abscess

Introduction

A dental abscess is a collection of pus that can form inside the teeth, in the gums, or in the bone that holds the teeth in place. Its caused by a bacterial infection.

Symptoms of an abscess in your tooth or gum may include: an intense, throbbing pain, pain that spreads to your ear, jaw and neck on the same side as the affected tooth or gum, pain that's worse when lying down, etc.

Treatment

Dental abscesses are treated by removing the source of the infection and draining away the pus. Depending on the location of the abscess and how severe the infection is, possible treatments are used like: removing the affected tooth, root canal treatment, etj.

Causes

Your mouth is full of bacteria, which form a sticky film on your teeth called plaque. If you don't keep your teeth clean, acids produced by the bacteria in plaque can damage your teeth and gums, leading to tooth decay or gum disease .

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of developing dental abscesses by keeping your teeth and gums as healthy as possible by use floss or an interdental brush at least once a day to clean your teeth, brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day, avoid rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash after brushing, etc.

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