Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is a bacterial infection of the tooth pulp, generally spreading to the root or between the gum and the tooth. The accumulation of pus in the tooth will produce tissue swelling inside and around the tooth, and will be associated with severe pain. Immediate attention is required, as antibiotics must be prescribed to eliminate the infection before the tooth can be treated.

An abscessed tooth is usually the result of a tooth decay left untreated, a trauma to the tooth, or a chipped or broken tooth. These conditions generate small openings in the enamel, allowing bacteria to spread inside the tooth and create an abscess.

1. Severe, continuous throbbing or shooting toothache
2. Small lump on the gum next to the infected tooth
3. Sensitivity when chewing or when drinking cold or hot liquids
4. Unpleasant taste in the mouth, and bad breath
5. Swollen glands in the neck, often accompanied with fever
6. Swollen jaw line or cheeks, indicating a very serious condition that requires immediate attention