Dental Abscess: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options
What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can form:
🦷 Periapical abscess – at the tip of a tooth’s root
🦷 Periodontal abscess – in the gum surrounding a tooth
These infections are often caused by:
Untreated cavities
Gum disease
A cracked or injured tooth
Poor oral hygiene habits
A dental abscess is not just a dental issue—it can affect your overall health if not treated promptly.
How to Tell If You Have a Dental Abscess
🔥 1. Severe Tooth Pain
Throbbing pain in or around the tooth that can radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck—often worse when chewing or applying pressure.
🧊 2. Sensitivity to Hot & Cold
Lingering pain after eating or drinking hot or cold items.
👉 Learn how we treat tooth sensitivity
😮💨 3. Swelling & Redness
Red, swollen gums or cheeks. Swelling may make it hard to open your mouth.
🔴 4. A Pimple-Like Bump on the Gums
Also called a fistula, this bump may release pus or fluid—clear evidence of infection.
😖 5. Bad Taste or Odor
A foul taste in your mouth or chronic bad breath from draining infection.
🤒 6. Fever or Fatigue
General illness, chills, or feeling unwell may indicate the infection is spreading.
🚨 7. Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing
This is a medical emergency. Seek urgent care immediately.
How Dr. Medynskyj Diagnoses a Dental Abscess
🦷 Clinical Exam
Dr. Medynskyj examines the teeth and gums for swelling, redness, or drainage.
📸 Dental X-Rays
X-rays reveal hidden infections and check for bone loss or abscess formation.
👉 Explore our diagnostic services
📝 Medical & Dental History
Past dental issues like decay or trauma help determine the cause and best treatment plan.
Treatment Options for a Dental Abscess
💧 1. Drainage
Dr. Medynskyj may open the abscess to allow pus to drain and relieve pressure.
🪥 2. Root Canal Therapy
This removes the infected pulp, disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it.
👉 Learn about root canal alternatives
❌ 3. Tooth Extraction
If the tooth is too damaged to save, it may need to be removed.
👉 See tooth replacement options
💊 4. Antibiotics
Prescribed when the infection spreads or causes fever and swelling.
How to Prevent Dental Abscesses
🪥 Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
🧵 Floss daily to remove food and plaque between teeth
🦷 Treat cavities early to avoid deeper infections
🚭 Avoid tobacco to reduce your risk of gum disease
🦷 Get regular checkups with Dr. Medynskyj
👉 Schedule your visit
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait—Abscesses Require Prompt Care
If you're experiencing symptoms of a dental abscess—like swelling, pain, or a foul taste—contact Dr. Medynskyj today. She provides prompt, gentle, and effective care to restore your health and comfort.
📍 Salt Creek Family Dental
Serving Hinsdale | La Grange | Oak Brook | Western Springs, IL
📞 (630) 323-0060
🌐 https://saltcreekfamilydental.com