Symptoms:
Tooth abscesses
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. It's caused by a bacterial infection. A tooth abscess is an infection inside the tooth itself, and an abscess at the end of a tooth, which is more commonly called a periapical abscess. If you think you might have a dental abscess, it’s really important to see your dentist as soon as possible, because abscesses don’t go away by themselves. Not only can they be very painful, but without prompt treatment, you could end up having to have your tooth extracted.
Where can you get a dental abscess?
You can get abscesses inside your tooth, in your jawbone, or in your gums (called a periodontal abscess). Wisdom teeth can be prone to infections and abscesses. You can also get them in your cheek, under your tongue or even in your throat. They’re usually called ‘dental’ abscesses even if they’re not actually in your tooth, just because they’re in your mouth and require a dentist’s care.
What is a dental abscess?
If visible, an abscess looks like a sore. It’s a pocket of pus that has gathered under the skin. They can be caused by a range of things, including injury, a pre-existing medical condition, or not looking after your oral hygiene properly. For as long as you have the infection, the pus will continue to build up, which is why it tends to get more painful. Eventually the abscess may burst, or it may need to be drained.
What are the symptoms of a tooth abscess?
A dental abscess may give you symptoms such as:
- A sharp pain or toothache in the affected area; this may spread to other areas, like your ear (although not every abscess is painful)
- Heat, redness and/or swelling in the affected area, due to inflammation
- Sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks

Self-help for a tooth abscess
If your tooth abscess is very sore, there are some things you can try to ease the pain until you see your dentist.
- Take over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol.
- Avoid very hot or cold food and drink.
- Try to use the other side of your mouth.
- Use a soft toothbrush.
- Avoid flossing the infected tooth.
- Eat soft foods like yoghurt, custard and smoothies.
How to treat a tooth abscess
Your dentist will examine your mouth to confirm whether or not you have a tooth abscess. They might sometimes recommend you have a dental x-ray too, to help them get a better look at things.
If you do have an abscess, the treatment you need will depend on how bad it is and where in your mouth it’s located. The aim of tooth abscess treatment is to get rid of the infection and save your tooth. This may include:
Draining the abscess
Your dentist will make a small hole in the abscess or tooth and clear away the pus inside. They may also prescribe antibiotics to treat the underlying infection if you need them.
Root canal treatment
If your abscess was caused by a problem with your tooth, your dentist may recommend you have a procedure called a root canal treatment. This aims to save your tooth so that it doesn’t need to be removed completely.
To do this, you’ll usually be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area. Then, your dentist will clean the bacteria from the centre of your tooth (known as the root canal) before filling and sealing the tooth again.
Tooth extraction
If your tooth can’t be repaired, it may need to be removed (extracted) completely as a last resort. If this happens, your dentist will usually numb the area with local anaesthetic and take out your tooth before draining the abscess. Sometimes, you might need a small stitch over the area where the tooth was removed to help it heal.
Prevention of a tooth abscess
Taking good care of your teeth and gums is the best way to prevent a tooth abscess from developing.
- Attend regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist and hygienist.
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean in between your teeth with floss or inter-dental brushes before you brush.
- Avoid rinsing with water after brushing as it washes away the fluoride from your toothpaste. Spit instead.
- Use a fluoride mouthwash after brushing.
- Eat a healthy diet, and limit sugar and snacks in between meals.
- If you’re a smoker, try to stop if you can.
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Bupa Dental Care is a trading name of Oasis Dental Care Limited. Registered in England and Wales No: 00478127. Registered office: Bupa Dental Care, Vantage Office Park, Old Gloucester Road, Hambrook, Bristol, United Kingdom BS16 1GW.
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