Dental Abscess
A Dental Infection That Can Become Life-Threatening
What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can form at the tip of the tooth root (periapical abscess) or in the gum tissue (periodontal abscess). Without treatment, the infection can spread to the jaw, neck, and head — becoming life-threatening.
Signs & Symptoms
- Severe, persistent, throbbing toothache
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Fever and general feeling of illness
- Swelling in the face, cheek, or jaw
- Tender, swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Foul taste or smell in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing (CALL 911)
What To Do Right Now
- 1Call an emergency dentist immediately — this is serious
- 2If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 911
- 3Take ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation
- 4Rinse with warm salt water to draw out some infection
- 5Do NOT delay — infections spread rapidly
What NOT To Do
- ✕Do NOT ignore swelling or fever — it means the infection is spreading
- ✕Do NOT try to pop or drain the abscess yourself
- ✕Do NOT take antibiotics without seeing a dentist — they treat symptoms, not the source
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dental abscess kill you?
Yes, in rare cases. If a dental abscess spreads to the airway or brain, it can be fatal. This is why any abscess with fever, swelling, or difficulty swallowing must be treated as a medical emergency.
Will antibiotics cure a dental abscess?
Antibiotics can control the spread of infection but cannot cure an abscess. The source of infection (the tooth or gum) must be treated by a dentist — through root canal, drainage, or extraction.
How do I know if my abscess is spreading?
Warning signs of spreading infection: fever over 101°F, swelling that is getting larger, difficulty opening your mouth, difficulty swallowing, or feeling very ill. These require emergency room care immediately.
CRITICAL — same day, or call 911 if breathing is affected
Other Dental Emergencies
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