What is a tooth abscess?

A tooth abscess develops when there is an infection around a tooth and pus builds up. If you think you might have an abscessed tooth, you should see your dentist promptly for treatment. Left untreated, a tooth abscess can lead to a serious infection in the jawbone, teeth and surrounding tissues.

What are the symptoms of a tooth abscess?

If you have a tooth abscess, you may have:

• a severe toothache
• pus
• red, swollen gums or face
• a bad taste in your mouth or bad breath
• fever
• sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold food and drink
• swollen glands in the neck
• a swollen upper or lower jaw, which suggests a serious infection
• difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth
• nausea, vomiting

What causes a tooth abscess?

A tooth abscess may be caused by severe tooth decay. It can also occur due to a dental injury such as a chipped or broken tooth. This is because an opening in the tooth's hard outer layer, or enamel, can let bacteria into the tooth, causing infection.

Another cause of a tooth abscess is severe gum disease around a tooth.

How is a tooth abscess treated?

A tooth abscess is treated to cure the infection and prevent complications, and to save the tooth if possible. You may be treated by your dentist or referred to an endodontist, a dentist who specialises in tooth roots.

The treatment of a tooth abscess depends on the seriousness of your condition. Treatments include:

• antibiotics to fight the infection — usually only if the infection is widespread or severe
• making a small cut to drain the abscess
• root canal treatment, which involves cleaning out the abscess and other material from the root of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it
• tooth removal (extraction), which only happens if you have a severe infection, or your tooth cannot be saved

Generally, early treatment can cure the infection and save the tooth.

Can a tooth abscess be prevented?

Practising good dental care can reduce your risk of a tooth abscess. This includes:

• brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• using floss or an interdental brush (a small brush for cleaning between your teeth) daily
• avoiding having too much sugary food and drinks, and limiting them to mealtimes where possible
• visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning
• cutting down on sugary foods and drinks
• not smoking

When should I see a dentist?

You should see a dentist regularly for check-ups. If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, or you have a toothache, see your dentist as soon as possible. A tooth abscess will not get better on its own; in fact, an untreated abscess might get worse and lead to life-threatening complications if the infection spreads to other parts of the body.

You should also see a dentist for a check-up as soon as you can if you have chipped or broken teeth.