Is an Abscessed Tooth a Dental Emergency? Know When to Act Fast

Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS

Reading time: four minutes.

Tooth pain may indicate a serious dental issue that requires immediate attention.

If you suspect a tooth abscess, act quickly. A delay could lead to severe complications, including infection spreading to other parts of the body.

This blog explains what an abscess is, why it’s considered a dental emergency, and the steps you should take to safeguard your oral health.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

A dental abscess is considered an emergency and requires professional dental care. Don’t delay treatment, as it can lead to severe pain, the spread of infection, tooth loss, and more serious health complications.

What Is an Abscess?

An abscess is a localized pocket of pus caused by bacterial infections.

When it occurs in dental structures, it’s known as a dental abscess.

There are three primary types:

  • Periapical abscess: This type forms at the apex of the tooth root and is often caused by untreated decay or cavities that allow bacteria to penetrate the pulp chamber. The infection spreads through the root canals, leading to swelling and severe pain.
  • Periodontal abscess: This abscess affects the gum tissues and adjacent structures, often linked to advanced periodontal disease or injury. It occurs when bacteria invade the spaces between the gum and the tooth, resulting in inflammation and pus accumulation.
  • Gingival abscess: This type occurs in the gum tissue and is commonly caused by foreign objects, like food particles or debris, becoming lodged in the gums. While less severe than other types, it still requires prompt treatment.

Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth manifests through distinct and often severe symptoms, including:

  • Intense, worsening toothache or dental pain.
  • Facial swelling or inflamed gums near the affected tooth.
  • Sensitivity to temperature extremes, such as cold or hot foods and drinks.
  • A salty, foul taste in the mouth from draining pus.
  • Pain or difficulty when biting or chewing.
  • Tender, red, or swollen gums around the infection.

Do not ignore these symptoms! They can lead to serious complications, such as the infection spreading to other tissues or systemic health issues.

Why an Abscessed Tooth Is a Dental Emergency

A dental abscess is an urgent condition because it signals a severe bacterial infection that requires immediate intervention.

Contact an emergency dentist if you experience:

  • Unbearable pain or discomfort.
  • Noticeable swelling in your face, jaw, or neck.
  • Persistent toothache unresponsive to over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Fever or general malaise indicating systemic involvement.
  • Breathing or swallowing difficulties.

What to Do if You Suspect an Abscess

If you think you have a dental abscess, take these steps immediately:

  1. Seek emergency dental care: Contact an emergency dentistry office for a same-day appointment. Delays can lead to worsening symptoms and increased treatment complexity.
  2. Manage pain: Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to ease pain and discomfort. Follow the dosage directions on the package and never exceed the recommended daily amount.
  3. Salt water rinses: You can also rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to decrease swelling and encourage drainage from the abscess. Mix 1 tsp of salt into a cup of warm water. DO NOT swallow. 
  4. Avoid irritating foods: Stay away from extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods and beverages that could aggravate sensitivity or pain. Stick to soft, neutral foods until you receive proper treatment.
  5. Apply a cold compress: To reduce facial swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 10-minute intervals.

Treatment Options for Abscessed Teeth

The appropriate treatment depends on the severity, location, and type of abscess.

Your emergency dentist will determine the best approach to manage the conditio.:

  • Root canal therapy: Your dentist will remove infected pulp from the inside of the tooth, clean the root canals, and seal the tooth to prevent reinfection. Root canal treatment is often the best option to save the tooth and restore function.
  • Tooth extraction: If the tooth is too damaged or fractured to be saved, your dentist will perform an extraction. Removing the infected tooth eliminates the source of infection and prevents further complications.
  • Incision and drainage: Your dentist will carefully make a small incision to drain the pus from the abscess, which relieves pain and pressure. They will likely prescribe antibiotics afterward to stop the infection from spreading further.
  • Antibiotic therapy: Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to target the bacterial infection, especially if the abscess is severe or has caused systemic symptoms.

Preventing Dental Abscesses

Prevention is rooted in effective oral hygiene and routine dental care.

Key strategies include:

  • Brush with fluoride toothpaste and maintain proper hydration to keep the mouth clean.
  • Attend regular dental checkups and professional cleanings for early detection of dental issues.
  • Address dental cavities and gum disease promptly to prevent bacterial infections from developing.

Contact Emergency Dental Care Today

If you suspect an abscess or are experiencing severe symptoms, don’t wait.

Dr. Young, DDS and the team at Young Dental SF Group are here to help you deal with the infection. 

📆To book an appointment at our dental office in San Francisco, CA call (415) 392-8611 or complete the online inquiry form.

📍Visit us at 490 Post St STE 830, San Francisco, CA 94102.