Understand why a suspected dental infection needs prompt attention.
An infection needs assessment
A dental abscess is a collection of pus caused by infection in a tooth or gum. It may cause strong tooth or gum pain, a bad taste, sensitivity, swelling or fever. It does not go away on its own and needs urgent dental treatment.
Treatment addresses the source
Depending on where the infection is and the condition of the tooth, treatment may include draining the abscess, root canal treatment or extraction. Antibiotics may sometimes be used, but the appropriate plan depends on a dental assessment. Do not choose a treatment from symptoms alone.
Do not delay emergency help
Difficulty breathing, speaking or swallowing, major mouth swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, or eye swelling with pain or visual changes needs emergency medical care. For a suspected abscess without those signs, contact a dentist promptly and describe the swelling and any fever. Routine appointment messages are not an emergency pathway.
Read the sources
General educational information. It is not a diagnosis or a personalised treatment plan. No clinician approval is claimed.
NHS: Dental abscessPrepared 2026-09-20 · Sources accessed 2026-09-20
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