Gum Abscess

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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 or gum abscess is called a periodontal abscess.

See below for more information on tooth & gum abscess

Symptoms of a tooth or gum abscess

Dental abscesses in your teeth and gum are often painful, but aren’t always. In either case, they should be looked at by the dentist. Getting help as soon as possible is important because gum abscesses don’t go away on their own. They can sometimes spread to other parts of the body and make you ill.

Symptoms of a tooth abscess or gum abscess may include:

  • An intense, throbbing pain in the affected tooth or gum that may come on suddenly and gets gradually wore.
  • Pain that spreads to your ear, jaw and neck on the same side as the affected tooth or gum.
  • Pain that’s worse when lying down, which may disturb your sleep.
  • Redness and swelling in your face
  • Shiny, red and swollen gums
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink
  • Bad breath and/or an unpleasant taste in your mouth

If the infection spreads, you may also develop a high temperature and feel generally unwell. In severe cases, you may find it hard to fully open your mouth and have difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Tooth & gum abscess treatment

Dental abscesses are treated by removing the source of the infection and draining away the pus.