A dental abscess is a collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection, usually in a tooth or the surrounding gum. It can cause intense, throbbing pain, facial swelling, a bad taste, and sometimes fever. An abscess will not clear up on its own, and the infection can spread — so prompt treatment matters. Our emergency dentist in Doncaster provides urgent same-day appointments where clinically appropriate to relieve pain and treat the infection.
Symptoms of a dental abscess
- Severe, throbbing toothache that may spread to the jaw, ear or neck
- Swelling in the face, cheek or gum
- Pain when biting, or when eating hot or cold food
- A tender, red area or a “gum boil”
- An unpleasant taste, or discharge of pus
- Feeling generally unwell, sometimes with a raised temperature
Why an abscess needs urgent care
An abscess is a sign of active infection. Left untreated, it can worsen, damage the surrounding bone, and in rare cases spread to other parts of the body. Painkillers may mask the discomfort, but they do not treat the cause. The sooner it is assessed, the more comfortable you will be and the more straightforward treatment tends to be.
How we treat it
Your emergency dentist will examine the area and usually take an x-ray to locate the source of infection. Depending on the cause, treatment may involve draining the abscess to release the pressure and pain, root canal treatment to save the tooth, or removing the tooth if it cannot be saved. Antibiotics may be prescribed where there are signs of spreading infection, but they are used alongside dental treatment, not instead of it. Everything is explained, with costs, before treatment begins.
Relief before your appointment
Take over-the-counter pain relief as directed, and try gentle warm salt-water rinses. Avoid very hot or cold foods, do not apply heat to the outside of your face, and never try to burst an abscess yourself. Call us and we will arrange to see you quickly.
Dental abscess — FAQs
Yes — it is an infection that will not clear on its own and needs urgent care. Spreading swelling that affects the eye, neck, breathing or swallowing is a medical emergency: call 999.
Will antibiotics cure it?
They can help control infection but do not remove the cause — dental treatment is still needed.
How can I relieve the pain now?
Over-the-counter pain relief and warm salt-water rinses may help. Don’t apply heat to the face or try to burst it.
What does treatment involve?
An exam and x-ray to find the source, then drainage, root canal treatment or extraction as appropriate.
