Quick answer
What is dental abscess?
A dental abscess is a collection of pus caused by infection in a tooth or gum. It needs urgent treatment by a dentist and will not resolve permanently on its own. Severe facial or neck swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, eye swelling or serious illness requires emergency help.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include intense tooth or gum pain, sensitivity, a bad taste, fever, difficulty opening the mouth and swelling of the face or jaw.
What to do while waiting
Use paracetamol or ibuprofen only if suitable for you and follow the packet. Eat soft foods, avoid very hot or cold food, and use a soft toothbrush. Do not put aspirin on the tooth or gum.
Dental treatment
The dentist may drain the abscess, treat the tooth’s root or remove the tooth. Attend even if pain improves, because untreated infection can spread.
Common questions about dental abscess
- Will a dental abscess go away by itself?
- Pain can temporarily ease if an abscess drains, but the infection source remains and needs dental treatment.
- Do I need antibiotics for a dental abscess?
- A dentist decides. Antibiotics may be used when infection is spreading or causing systemic illness, but dental treatment is still needed.
- Can a GP treat a dental abscess?
- GPs do not provide dental procedures. Contact a dentist or NHS 111 for urgent dental access.