Dental Abscesses

An abscess is a collection of pus caused by a build up of infection, bacteria and tissue. There are two types of tooth abscess:

Periodontal abscess

Periodontal tooth abscesses are often a result of gum disease. Gum disease can cause the 'gum pockets' supporting teeth to become inflamed and widen allowing bacteria to develop. This bacteria develops into an abscess if the gum disease is not treated immediately.  

Periapical abscess

A periapical tooth abscess is found in the center of teeth, in the dental pulp. Tooth decay is the cause of this form of dental abscess. The cavity in the tooth allows bacteria to breed and the infection caused will lead to an abscess. Periapical tooth abscesses are common in teeth that require root canal treatment and are often the main symptom that advanced dental treatment is needed.

Treatment for dental abscesses

If the dental abscess is small, dentists may be able to drain the infected pus and treat the abscess with medication. Periodontal abscesses will be treated by draining the abscess and cleaning the gum pocket to encourage the gum to seal and close around the tooth preventing further infection. Periapical abscesses are treated with root canal treatment. If the abscess is too large or the tooth cavity too deep, dentists may need to extract the tooth.      

Related guides

• Tooth Decay
• Missing teeth
• Chipped/ broken teeth
• Dental Abscesses
• Stained teeth
• Jaw pain

Other guides

• Dental Hygiene
• Gum disease
• Childrens' Dentistry
• Teeth whitening
• Reconstructive dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Dental Implants
• Dental Crowns
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Dental Veneers
• Dental Treatment in Mexico

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