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

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Dental Abfractions: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments