Tooth pain is never fun, but if it’s sharp, throbbing, or paired with swelling, you might be dealing with more than just a cavity. An abscessed tooth is a serious dental issue that shouldn’t be ignored. It’s not just painful, it’s your body’s way of signaling that there’s an infection that needs attention. It’s important to understand what an abscessed tooth is, what causes it, and how to know when it’s time to see your dentist.
What Is an Abscessed Tooth?
An abscessed tooth is an infection that forms at the root of a tooth or in the space between the tooth and gum. It typically happens when bacteria enter the pulp of the tooth (the soft inner part that contains nerves and blood vessels), usually due to a deep cavity, cracked tooth, or gum disease.
The body responds by creating a pocket of pus to try to fight off the infection, and that’s where the swelling and pain come from.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Abscesses can cause a range of symptoms, some of which may feel more intense than others. Keep an eye out for these red flags:
- Throbbing, persistent tooth pain
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling in the gums or face
- A bump or pimple on the gums (sometimes with pus)
- A foul taste in the mouth or bad breath
- Fever or general feeling of being unwell
If the pain comes on suddenly or gets worse quickly, don’t wait. An abscess won’t go away on its own and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
What Causes a Dental Abscess?
There are a few common ways bacteria can work their way into the tooth and cause an infection:
- Untreated Cavities: Deep decay that reaches the pulp opens the door for bacteria to move in.
- Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Damage to the tooth surface can expose the inner pulp and lead to infection.
- Gum Disease: Infections in the gum tissue can create pockets where bacteria collect and spread.
- Previous Dental Work: In some cases, complications from older dental work (like crowns or fillings) can contribute if they become loose or damaged.
How It’s Treated
Treatment for an abscessed tooth depends on how severe the infection is, but the goal is always the same: clear the infection and save the tooth whenever possible.
Here’s what your dentist may recommend:
- Drain the Abscess: Your dentist may open the area to release the pus and clean the infection.
- Root Canal: If the tooth can be saved, a root canal removes the infected pulp and seals the tooth to prevent future issues.
- Tooth Extraction: If the damage is too severe, the tooth may need to be removed to stop the infection from spreading.
- Antibiotics: These may be prescribed to help clear the infection, especially if it has spread beyond the tooth.
Don’t Try to Treat It at Home
Rinsing with warm salt water can help ease discomfort, but it’s not a cure. You’ll need professional dental care to fully treat an abscessed tooth. Delaying treatment increases the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, or even bloodstream.
Don’t Ignore the Signs — Your Dentist Is Here to Help
An abscessed tooth is a serious condition that needs prompt attention. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, swelling, or signs of infection, don’t wait it out. Call your Rockwood dentist right away. We’re here to relieve your pain, treat the issue, and get you back to feeling like yourself again, with your smile intact.