Abscessed Teeth

What is an abscessed tooth?

An abscessed tooth is an infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and the tooth. This infection may cause discomfort and often times swelling of the gum tissue near the infected tooth. The most common cause is excessive or rampant tooth decay which has reached the nerve. Other causes of tooth abscess are trauma to the tooth, gingivitis and gum disease.

What are symptoms of abscessed teeth?

Individuals with an abscess may experience a toothache that is severe and continuous which results in a sharp or throbbing pain.

Other symptoms may include:

1. Pain from eating or chewing
2. Hot or cold sensitivity
3. Fever
4. Bitter taste and bad breath
5. Swollen glands in the neck
6. General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling
7. Redness, swelling (a bubble) on the gum tissue
8. An open, draining sore on the gum tissue
9. No pain, but other symptoms may still be present

What should I do if I am experiencing these symptoms?

If you are experiencing the aforementioned symptoms, please contact our office. We will help you determine the best approach to treatment, based on your particular situation.