Symptom
Dental abscess
A dental abscess is an infection that must be taken seriously. Here is how to recognise it and how we treat it.
The signs
- Throbbing pain, sometimes intense
- Swelling of the gum or cheek
- A small spot (fistula) on the gum
- Bad taste in the mouth, sometimes fever
The treatment
Treatment aims to clear the infection: drainage, followed by root canal treatment to keep the tooth whenever possible. An abscess should never be left untreated.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dental abscess serious?
It should not be ignored: the infection can spread. Prompt treatment is recommended.
Are antibiotics enough?
They can help, but they do not replace treating the cause (drainage, root canal treatment).
How can I ease the pain in the meantime?
A painkiller and lukewarm mouth rinses can help; see a dentist without delay.