A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection inside a tooth or gum. It leads to swelling, pain, and sometimes fever or facial puffiness. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the infection from spreading to the jaw or bloodstream.
An untreated dental abscess can spread infection to other teeth, gums, or even the jawbone. Quick diagnosis and treatment relieve pain and preserve the affected tooth whenever possible.
If you notice swelling, severe pain, or discharge near a tooth or gum, you may have an abscess. Ignoring it can lead to serious complications and bone loss.
The main goal is to eliminate infection, relieve pain, and prevent recurrence. Depending on severity, treatment may include drainage, antibiotics, or root canal therapy.