Tooth abscess is a common yet painful condition that can affect anyone, from the young to the old. In this article, our Brisbane dentist aims to tackle some essential and FAQs about tooth abscesses, including the signs, symptoms, solutions, and so many more concerns you may have regarding tooth abscesses. By understanding what to look out for and how to react, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining your dental health.

What is a tooth abscess?

A tooth abscess is essentially a pocket of pus that forms in different parts of the tooth due to a bacterial infection. This condition can occur at the tip of the tooth’s root (periapical abscess) or in the gums at the side of a tooth root (periodontal abscess). It’s usually the result of untreated tooth decay, an injury, or prior dental work.

Dental abscesses are serious because they can lead to significant infection, which may spread to other parts of the body. That’s why it’s crucial to see a dentist if you suspect you have an abscess. Only a professional can treat it effectively, usually by draining the pus and possibly treating the tooth with root canal treatment or extraction, depending on how severe the damage is.

What are the common symptoms of a tooth abscess?

Recognising the symptoms of a tooth abscess can help you seek timely treatment and avoid further complications. Here are the most common signs to watch out for:

• Persistent, severe toothache: This pain can radiate to the jawbone, neck, or ear.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures: This is particularly noticeable with foods and drinks.
• Sensitivity to the pressure of chewing or biting: You might feel sharp pain when using the affected tooth.
• Fever: An increase in body temperature can sometimes accompany an abscess.
• Swelling in your face or cheek: This may also be noticeable and can be quite rapid.
• Tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck: These help your body fight infections and may become swollen when there is a dental abscess.
• If the abscess ruptures, you may experience a sudden rush of foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth and pain relief: This is the pus draining from the abscess.
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing (in severe cases): These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact a dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment not only relieves pain but also reduces the risk of the infection spreading.

How can I relieve the severe toothache and throbbing pain that extends to my jaw, ear, or neck?

A dental abscess often causes severe, throbbing pain that can extend to your jaw, ear, or neck. Here are steps you can take to relieve the pain:

Over-the-counter Pain Relief: To reduce pain and inflammation, use ibuprofen or paracetamol (acetaminophen). Always follow the dosage instructions on the package or as advised by your doctor.

Apply a Cold Compress: Place an ice pack wrapped in a towel on the outside of your cheek near the painful area. This helps reduce swelling and numb the pain temporarily. Use it for 15-20 minutes every hour.

Keep Your Head Elevated: When lying down, use an extra pillow to elevate your head. This reduces blood flow to the affected area, helping to decrease swelling and pain.

Avoid Hot, Cold, or Sweet Stimuli: Stick to lukewarm foods and drinks. Avoid hot, cold, or sugary items that can aggravate the tooth pain.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your teeth gently, avoiding the painful area to prevent further irritation.

Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day to help reduce inflammation and clean the area.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which can help flush out bacteria and reduce discomfort.

Professional Treatment for a Tooth Abscess

While these steps can help manage the pain, professional treatment is essential to address the root cause of the abscess:

Draining the Abscess: A dentist will typically drain the abscess to remove the pus, which relieves pressure and reduces pain.

Root Canal Treatment: In some cases, a root canal may be needed to clean out the infected pulp and seal the tooth to prevent further infection.

Tooth Extraction: If the tooth is severely damaged, it may need to be extracted to prevent the spread of infection.

Antibiotics: If the infection has spread or if you have a weakened immune system, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection.

What can I do about the swelling in my face or cheek near the affected tooth?

Swelling in your face or cheek from a tooth abscess can be painful and uncomfortable. Here are some steps you can take to manage it:

Apply a Cold Compress

• Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel.
• Place it on the swollen area for 15-20 minutes at a time.
• Repeat this every hour to help reduce swelling and numb the pain.

Keep Your Head Elevated

• When resting or sleeping, use extra pillows to keep your head raised.
• This can help reduce blood flow to the swollen area, decreasing swelling.

Avoid Heat on Your Face

• Heat can make the swelling worse.
• Stick to cold compresses instead.

Take Over-the-Counter Medication

• Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and pain.
• Follow the dosage instructions on the package or as advised by your doctor.

Saltwater Rinse

• Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
• Rinse your mouth with the solution several times a day.
• This helps reduce bacteria and can soothe the swollen area.

Hydrate

• Drink plenty of water.
• Staying hydrated helps your body fight off the infection.

Good Oral Hygiene

• Continue to brush and floss your teeth gently.
• Avoid the painful area to prevent further irritation.

Important Note

These measures can provide temporary relief, but it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. A tooth abscess is a serious condition that needs professional treatment. Your dentist can drain the abscess, prescribe antibiotics if needed, and treat the underlying cause of the infection to prevent it from coming back.

Prompt treatment is key to avoiding more serious complications. If you experience severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or swallowing, seek immediate medical attention, as these can be signs of a spreading infection.

By following these steps and getting professional care, you can manage the swelling and start feeling better soon.

How can I reduce the redness and inflammation in my gums around the infected tooth?

Reducing the redness and inflammation in your gums around an infected tooth involves a few simple steps. Start with a saltwater rinse by mixing a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinsing your mouth several times a day. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily. Avoid irritating foods and drinks like those that are very hot, cold, or spicy. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria, and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can reduce swelling and pain.

For Professional Treatments

Your dentist might perform a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. If the infection is severe, antibiotics may be prescribed to kill the bacteria causing the infection. In cases of significant pus buildup, draining the abscess can relieve pressure and reduce swelling. A root canal may be necessary if the infection has reached the tooth’s pulp. Always seek dental care to properly address the infection and prevent complications.

What should I do about the foul taste in my mouth caused by pus drainage?

A foul taste in your mouth due to pus drainage from an abscess can be very unpleasant. Here are some steps to manage it:

• Saltwater rinse: Regularly rinse your mouth with salt water to help cleanse the area and reduce the bad taste.
• Maintain oral hygiene: Brush your teeth, tongue, and gums gently but thoroughly at least twice a day to help remove bacteria and debris.
• Drink plenty of water: This helps flush out your mouth and keep bacteria to a minimum.
• Chew sugar-free gum: This can also help freshen your breath and manage the taste.
• See your dentist: Pus indicates an infection that requires professional dental treatment. You might need drainage or antibiotics.

How can I manage the fever that seems to be related to my tooth problem?

A fever associated with a dental abscess is a sign that your body is fighting an infection. Here’s what you can do:

• Take over-the-counter fever reducers: Medications like paracetamol can help lower your fever and relieve pain. Always use these as directed by the package or your doctor.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help cool your body and keep you hydrated.
• Rest: Giving your body a break allows it to use its energy to fight off the infection.
• Cool compress: Apply a damp, cool cloth to your forehead or the back of your neck to help reduce your temperature.
• Consult a dentist or doctor: Since fever can indicate a spreading infection, it’s important to seek professional advice promptly.

Managing these symptoms effectively involves a combination of home care and professional dental treatment to address the underlying cause of your discomfort.

What is the best way to treat increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks?

To manage increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks caused by a tooth abscess, start by using toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth, which can block pain signals. Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks, and use a straw to bypass the sensitive tooth when drinking. Applying fluoride gel, maintaining good oral hygiene with gentle brushing and flossing, and avoiding acidic and sugary foods can also help reduce sensitivity.

It’s crucial to see a dentist as soon as you can because they can provide professional treatments such as desensitising agents, root canal therapy if the abscess has infected the tooth pulp, or drainage and antibiotics for severe abscesses.

How can I alleviate the pain I experience when chewing or biting?

Pain while chewing can significantly affect your eating habits and overall quality of life. To alleviate this pain, consider the following:

• Choose softer foods: Eating softer foods can reduce the stress on your teeth.
• Avoid chewing from the affected side: This gives the painful area a chance to heal.
• Take over-the-counter pain relief: Medications like ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and pain. Ensure to use as directed.
• Consult your dentist: Persistent pain upon chewing could be a sign of a more serious condition, like a dental abscess or cracked tooth, which needs professional treatment.

What should I do about the swollen and tender lymph nodes in my neck or jaw?

Swollen and tender lymph nodes often indicate your body is fighting an infection, such as a dental abscess. Here’s what you can do:

• Apply warm compresses: This can help reduce discomfort and promote blood flow to the area.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen can ease pain and reduce inflammation.
• Maintain good oral hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent further infection.
• See a dentist or doctor: Swollen lymph nodes caused by a dental problem require professional evaluation and treatment.

How can I stop the pus drainage from my tooth or gums and improve my bad breath?

To address pus drainage and bad breath from a dental abscess, follow these steps:

• Saltwater rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day to cleanse the area and reduce bacteria that cause bad breath.
• Good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly, and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria that contribute to bad breath.
• See a dentist: A dentist can drain the abscess and provide appropriate treatment to prevent further infection and drainage.

What can I do if I have difficulty opening my mouth due to swelling and pain?

If swelling and pain are making it hard to open your mouth, try these approaches:

• Cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
• Eat soft foods: Choose foods that require minimal chewing to ease the strain on your jaw.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and ease pain.
• Consult a dentist: Difficulty in opening your mouth could be a sign of a serious infection needing immediate care.

What treatment options are available for a tooth abscess?

Several treatment options are available for managing a tooth abscess:

• Drainage: The dentist might make a small cut into the abscess to drain the pus, which alleviates pain and starts the healing process.
• Root canal treatment: This involves removing the infected pulp of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canal, and then sealing it to prevent further infection.
• Tooth extraction: If the tooth cannot be saved, removing it may be necessary to clear the infection.
• Antibiotics: If the infection is spreading or if you have a weakened immune system, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics.

Can a tooth abscess go away on its own?

A tooth abscess will not go away on its own. Without treatment, the infection can spread to your jaw, surrounding tissues, and other areas of your body, leading to serious health problems. It’s crucial to seek dental care promptly if you suspect you have an abscess.

How can I prevent a tooth abscess?

Preventing a tooth abscess starts with taking good care of your oral health. Here are key steps to keep in mind:

• Brush your teeth twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss daily: Cleaning between your teeth helps remove plaque that can lead to abscesses.
• Eat a balanced diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay.
• Visit your dentist regularly: Regular check-ups and cleanings can catch issues before they develop into an abscess.
• Avoid tobacco products: Smoking and chewing tobacco can damage your gums and make it easier for an infection to start.
• Protect your teeth: If you play sports, wear a mouthguard to prevent injury that might lead to an abscess.

Is there a link between smoking and dental abscesses?

Yes, smoking is directly linked to an increased risk of dental abscesses. Here’s how smoking affects dental health:

• Reduces blood flow: Smoking impairs blood flow to the gums, which affects the gums’ ability to fight off infections, increasing the risk of abscesses.
• Weakens immune response: Smokers have a weaker immune system response in the gums, making it harder to combat the bacteria that cause dental infections.
• Promotes plaque buildup: Smoking contributes to plaque accumulation on teeth, a primary cause of tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to abscesses.

What dietary changes can help with managing symptoms of a tooth abscess?

Making the right dietary choices can help manage and possibly reduce the discomfort caused by a tooth abscess. Consider these adjustments:

• Soft foods: Opt for soft, easy-to-chew foods such as soups, yogurts, smoothies, and mashed potatoes to avoid aggravating the abscess.
• Avoid sugary and acidic foods: Sugars and acids can exacerbate tooth decay and aggravate pain and swelling.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush bacteria from your mouth and keep the tissues hydrated.
• Limit extreme temperatures: Eat and drink foods at moderate temperatures to avoid triggering pain from sensitivity.

Are there any natural remedies for managing tooth abscess symptoms?

While natural remedies cannot cure a tooth abscess, they can offer temporary relief from the discomfort. Here are a few methods:

• Saltwater rinse: A saline rinse can cleanse the infected area and reduce pain and swelling.
• Clove oil: Applying a small amount of clove oil to the affected area can numb the pain temporarily due to its eugenol content.
• Garlic paste: Garlic has natural antibacterial properties. Applying a paste of crushed garlic directly to the affected area might help reduce bacteria.
• Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the cheek can help reduce swelling and numb the area, offering temporary relief.

When should I seek emergency dental care for a tooth abscess?

Seek immediate dental care for a tooth abscess if you experience any of the following symptoms, as they indicate the infection may be spreading:

• Fever: This suggests your body is fighting a significant infection.
• Swelling in the face or cheek: Swelling that worsens quickly can be a sign of a spreading infection.
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing: These symptoms can be signs of a severe infection that requires urgent treatment.
• Prolonged and severe pain: If pain isn’t relieved with over-the-counter medications and interferes with daily life, seek emergency care.
• General malaise or feeling unwell: This can indicate that the infection is impacting your overall health.

Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the infection from spreading and to preserve your dental health and overall well-being.

How does an untreated dental abscess affect overall health?

An untreated dental abscess can have serious implications for your overall health:

• Spread of infection: The infection can spread to the jaw, other teeth, and even to distant parts of the body such as the heart and brain.
• Increased risk of sepsis: This life-threatening response to infection can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
• Weakened immune system: Fighting a persistent infection can weaken your body’s immune system, making you more susceptible to other illnesses.

What is the difference between a periodontal and a periapical abscess?

• Periodontal abscess: Occurs in the gums at the side of the tooth root. It is usually caused by gum disease (periodontitis), which allows bacteria to accumulate in the pockets between the teeth and gums.
• Periapical abscess: Forms at the tip of the tooth’s root. It typically occurs when bacteria invade the dental pulp, usually due to decay, trauma, or a cracked tooth.

Both types of abscesses require prompt dental treatment to prevent complications.

Can children get dental abscesses?

Yes, children can develop dental abscesses, although they are less common than in adults. Causes include:

• Poor dental hygiene: Not brushing or flossing adequately.
• A diet high in sugar: Increases the risk of tooth decay, which can lead to abscesses.
• Tooth injury: An injury to a child’s tooth can lead to infection if not properly treated.

It’s crucial for children to see  their Brisbane paediatric dentist regularly and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent the development of abscesses.

How long does it take for a dental abscess to heal after treatment?

The healing time for a dental abscess varies depending on the severity of the abscess and the type of treatment received:

• After drainage and root canal: If the abscess is drained and a root canal is performed, you might begin to feel relief within a few days. Complete healing often occurs within a couple of weeks.
• After tooth extraction: If the tooth is extracted, initial healing of the gum may take up to two weeks, with complete bone healing taking several months.

Are antibiotics always necessary for treating a dental abscess?

Antibiotics are not always necessary for treating a dental abscess. They are typically used when:

• The infection has spread: If there are signs of the infection spreading to other parts of the face, neck, or other areas, antibiotics may be prescribed.
• You have a weakened immune system: People with health conditions that affect the immune system may need antibiotics to help fight the infection.

Can a dental abscess cause headaches?

A dental abscess may cause headaches. The pain from the abscess, especially if it’s located in an upper tooth, can radiate to the skull. Additionally, the overall stress and infection in the body can contribute to headache pain.

What should I do if my tooth abscess bursts on its own?

If your tooth abscess bursts on its own, follow these steps immediately:

• Rinse your mouth: Use a saltwater solution to gently rinse out your mouth. This helps cleanse the area and remove pus.
• Avoid touching the area: Do not poke or squeeze the abscess, as this can spread the infection.
• Contact your dentist: Arrange to see your dentist as soon as possible. They need to clean the area and ensure no infection remains.
• Watch for signs of infection: If you develop a fever, increased pain, or swelling, seek medical care urgently.

How can stress impact dental health and potentially lead to abscesses?

Stress can affect dental health in several ways:

• Neglect of oral hygiene: High stress often leads to neglecting regular brushing and flossing.
• Clenching and grinding: Stress can cause you to clench or grind your teeth, potentially leading to cracks where bacteria can enter and form an abscess.
• Weakened immune system: Chronic stress weakens the immune system, reducing your body’s ability to fight off infections, including those in the mouth.

What role does diabetes play in the risk of developing dental abscesses?

Diabetes increases the risk of dental abscesses due to:

• High blood sugar levels: These can promote bacterial growth and reduce the mouth’s ability to fight infection.
• Slower healing: Diabetes can slow the healing process, meaning dental infections might progress more quickly and severely.
• Gum disease: People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, a risk factor for dental abscesses.

Can I use over-the-counter dental cement to seal a tooth that might be causing an abscess?

Using over-the-counter dental cement can be a temporary solution in some dental emergencies, but it is not advisable for treating an abscess because:

• Underlying infection: It does not address the underlying infection, which can continue to spread.
• Improper seal: If not applied correctly, it could trap bacteria against the tooth, worsening the situation.
• Professional treatment needed: Dental abscesses require professional treatment, such as drainage and possibly antibiotics or root canal therapy.