Health Library

A tooth abscess is a sac of infected material called pus in a tooth or the gums.

Abscess Between Tooth and Gum

Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Bacteria cause a tooth abscess. It begins when bacteria invade and infect a tooth. This results in pus build-up. When the pus is unable to drain, an abscess results.

Conditions that allow bacteria to invade a tooth include:

• Severe tooth decay
• Break or crack in a tooth that lets bacteria invade the pulp

Factors that may increase your risk of developing a tooth abscess include:

• Build up of tartar or calculus beneath the gum line
• Poor dental hygiene leading to cavities and periodontal diseases

Symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

• Throbbing/lingering pain in a tooth or gum area
• Pain when biting
• Sudden tooth pain
• Redness, tenderness, or swelling of the gums
• Fever
• Bad breath or foul taste in mouth
• Open, draining sore on the gums

If left untreated, complications of tooth abscess include:

• Loss of tooth and surrounding tissues or bone
• Spread of infection to surrounding tissue or bone

Your dentist will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A detailed exam of your teeth and gums will be done.

Images may need to be taken of the tooth and surrounding bone. This can be done with x-ray.

A sample of the abscess fluid may be taken and tested.

To help reduce your chance of getting a tooth abscess, follow proper dental hygiene:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after meals or at least twice per day.
• Floss between your teeth and gums every day.
• Get regular dental check-ups and teeth and gum clearnings every six months.