Tooth Abscess Symptoms – Recognizing Common Signs of Dental Infection

A tooth abscess is a painful dental condition that occurs when a bacterial infection causes pus to accumulate in the tooth or the surrounding tissues. It can be a result of tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or gum disease. If left untreated, a tooth abscess can lead to serious complications, so it’s important to recognize the symptoms early on.

One of the most common symptoms of a tooth abscess is pain. The pain is usually severe and throbbing, and it can radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck. In some cases, the pain may be so intense that it interferes with daily activities and affects sleep. The presence of pain indicates that the infection has spread and is affecting the surrounding tissues.

Swelling in the face or jaw is another common symptom of a tooth abscess. The area around the infected tooth may become swollen and tender to the touch. The swelling can be accompanied by redness and increased warmth. This is a sign that the infection has spread and is causing inflammation in the tissues.

In some cases, a tooth abscess can cause a fever. Fever is a common response to an infection, and it’s the body’s way of fighting off the bacteria. If you have a tooth abscess and you develop a fever, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading further.

Other symptoms of a tooth abscess include bad breath and a foul taste in the mouth. The drainage from the abscess can cause a bad odor, and it may leave a bitter or salty taste in your mouth. These symptoms may persist even after you have brushed your teeth or used mouthwash.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. A dentist will be able to diagnose the abscess and provide the appropriate treatment, which may include draining the abscess, prescribing antibiotics, or performing a root canal.

Tooth Abscess Symptoms

A tooth abscess is a severe infection that forms on the tooth, usually as a result of untreated dental decay or trauma to the tooth. Understanding the symptoms of a tooth abscess is crucial for early detection and timely treatment.

Common Symptoms

One of the most common symptoms of a tooth abscess is pain. The pain is usually severe and throbbing, often radiating to the jaw, ear, or neck. Other common symptoms include:

  • Swelling: Swelling around the affected tooth or on the face is a common sign of a tooth abscess.
  • Fever: A tooth abscess can cause a fever, particularly if the infection has spread to the surrounding tissues.
  • Drainage: In some cases, a tooth abscess may cause an unpleasant taste in the mouth and a foul odor due to the presence of pus.

Recognizing Signs of Infection

In addition to the common symptoms mentioned above, a tooth abscess can also exhibit signs of infection. These signs include:

  • Redness and warmth: The area around the affected tooth may appear red and feel warm to the touch.
  • Inflammation: The gums around the abscessed tooth may be inflamed and tender.
  • Painful chewing: Chewing or biting down on the affected tooth may be extremely painful.
  • Sensitivity to temperature: The tooth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Timely treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading and causing further complications.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment options.

Understanding Tooth Abscesses

A tooth abscess is a painful dental condition caused by an infection. It occurs when bacteria invade the dental pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth. This infection can lead to the formation of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms inside the tooth or in the surrounding tissues.

Symptoms

One of the most common symptoms of a tooth abscess is severe pain. The pain may be constant or intermittent and can worsen when you bite down or chew. In addition to pain, other common symptoms include:

  • Swelling and redness in the face or neck
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • A bad taste in the mouth
  • Fever

It is important to note that not all tooth abscesses cause symptoms, and some cases may go unnoticed until they are detected during a dental examination or X-ray.

Infection and Drainage

A tooth abscess is an indication of an underlying infection. When the immune system detects the infection, it sends white blood cells to fight the bacteria, resulting in pus formation. The abscess may eventually drain on its own, releasing the pus. However, if the abscess does not drain, it can cause an increase in pain and further complications.

It is essential to seek dental treatment if you suspect you have a tooth abscess. Your dentist can provide the necessary treatment, which may include a root canal, extraction of the infected tooth, or draining the abscess to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

Causes of Tooth Abscesses

Tooth abscesses are generally caused by an infection that originates from within the tooth or the surrounding tissues. The most common cause of a tooth abscess is tooth decay, where bacteria penetrate the enamel and dentin, reaching the pulp of the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and lead to an abscess formation.

The symptoms of a tooth abscess may include severe toothache, especially when biting or chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, drainage of pus or a foul taste in the mouth, facial swelling, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

Infection

An infection within the tooth can occur when bacteria enter through a cavity or a crack in the tooth, allowing them to reach the inner layers. The bacteria then multiply, leading to inflammation and the formation of pus. Without proper treatment, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and form an abscess.

Drainage

In some cases, an abscess may result in drainage of pus, which can cause a foul taste in the mouth and bad breath. This drainage usually occurs through a small opening in the gum near the abscess. It is important to note that draining the abscess at home is not recommended as it may worsen the infection and delay proper treatment.

Overall, tooth abscesses are primarily caused by untreated tooth decay and can result in severe pain, facial swelling, and other uncomfortable symptoms. It is essential to seek prompt dental care to alleviate the infection, prevent further complications, and save the tooth.

Common Signs of a Tooth Abscess

When it comes to tooth abscess symptoms, there are several common signs to be aware of. Recognizing these signs can help you identify when you may be dealing with an abscessed tooth and seek appropriate dental treatment.

1. Swelling

One of the most noticeable symptoms of a tooth abscess is swelling in the affected area. This can occur around the tooth or in the surrounding gums. The swelling may be accompanied by redness and tenderness.

2. Drainage

Another sign of a tooth abscess is drainage. This can manifest as a persistent foul taste in your mouth or a foul odor. You may also notice pus or blood draining from the affected tooth or gums.

3. Pain

Pain is a common symptom of a tooth abscess. The pain is often severe and can be described as throbbing or shooting. It may radiate to other parts of the face, such as the jaw or ear.

4. Facial Swelling

In some cases, a tooth abscess can cause swelling in the face. This can be particularly noticeable if the abscess is near the front of the mouth or in the upper jaw. Facial swelling may also be accompanied by difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing.

If you experience any of these common signs of a tooth abscess, it is important to seek dental care as soon as possible. Untreated abscessed teeth can lead to further infection and potentially serious complications.

Severe Toothache and Swelling

Severe toothache and swelling are common symptoms of a tooth abscess, which is an infection in the tooth or gum. The infection can cause intense pain that may radiate through the jaw and face. The pain typically worsens when biting or applying pressure to the affected tooth.

In addition to the pain, swelling is another common symptom of a tooth abscess. The infection can cause swelling in the surrounding gum tissue, resulting in a puffy appearance. The swelling can also spread to the face, causing redness and discomfort.

Possible Complications

If a tooth abscess is left untreated, the infection may spread to other areas of the face and head. This can lead to more serious complications, such as cellulitis, a skin infection, or Ludwig’s angina, a potentially life-threatening condition that affects the floor of the mouth and throat.

Drainage and Fever

In some cases, a tooth abscess may cause drainage of pus, which can have a foul taste and odor. This drainage can occur through the tooth or gum, relieving some of the pressure and reducing swelling.

In addition to pain, swelling, and drainage, a tooth abscess may also cause fever. An elevated body temperature is a sign that the body is fighting off the infection.

Common Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess
– Severe toothache
– Swelling in the gum tissue and face
– Drainage of pus
– Fever

Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

If you are experiencing sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, it may be a sign of a tooth abscess. Tooth abscesses are caused by an infection that can result in swelling, pain, and other symptoms. The sensitivity to hot and cold is often caused by the infection affecting the nerve in the tooth, making it more sensitive to temperature changes.

When hot or cold food or drinks come into contact with the infected tooth, you may feel a sharp, intense pain. This pain can be debilitating and can last for several minutes. It is important to note that this sensitivity is different from temporary tooth sensitivity, which is often caused by exposed dentin due to worn enamel or gum recession.

If you are experiencing sensitivity to hot and cold that is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, fever, or drainage, it is important to seek immediate dental care. These symptoms may indicate that the infection has spread and is affecting other parts of the face or body.

Ignoring the symptoms of a tooth abscess can lead to further complications and can even result in the infection spreading to other areas of the body. Therefore, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible to treat the infection and alleviate the pain and discomfort.

Persistent Bad Breath and Taste

One of the common symptoms of a tooth abscess is persistent bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. The infection in the tooth can cause an odor that is noticeable even after brushing and flossing. This is due to the presence of bacteria in the abscess, which release gases and toxins that contribute to bad breath.

Additionally, the taste in the mouth may also be affected by the presence of pus in the abscess. Pus is a thick yellow or green fluid that forms in response to infection. When this pus drains from the abscess, it can lead to a foul taste in the mouth.

In some cases, the bad breath and taste may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, swelling of the face, and severe tooth pain. These symptoms indicate that the abscess is causing an infection that requires immediate dental treatment.

Symptoms: Persistent bad breath, unpleasant taste in the mouth, fever, swelling of the face, severe tooth pain
Cause: Infection in the tooth leading to the formation of an abscess
Treatment: Dental treatment to remove the abscess and prevent further infection

If you experience persistent bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment for a tooth abscess can lead to further complications and spread of the infection. A dentist will be able to diagnose the abscess and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate the symptoms and prevent further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues.

Tender and Swollen Gums

One of the common symptoms of a tooth abscess is tender and swollen gums. When an abscess forms around a tooth, it can cause the surrounding gum tissue to become inflamed and swollen. This swelling can make the gums appear red and puffy, and they may feel tender or sensitive to touch.

In some cases, the swelling may be accompanied by the presence of a small bump or pimple on the gum near the affected tooth. This can be a sign that the abscess has developed and is causing fluid buildup and pressure in the area.

The swelling and inflammation can also lead to discomfort or pain in the gums. The pain may range from mild to severe, and it may be constant or intermittent. It is often described as a throbbing or pulsating sensation.

Causes of Gum Swelling in Tooth Abscess

The swelling in the gums is typically a result of the infection that has spread from the tooth to the surrounding tissues. When a tooth develops an abscess, bacteria from the infection can travel through the root canal and into the gums, causing inflammation and swelling.

In addition to the swelling, the abscess may also cause drainage of pus or fluid. This drainage can be seen as a foul-tasting, foul-smelling discharge that may occur spontaneously or when pressure is applied to the affected area.

In some cases, the infection from the tooth abscess can spread further, leading to a more serious condition called cellulitis. This is characterized by swelling and redness of the face, along with fever and increased pain.

If you are experiencing swelling, tenderness, or any other symptoms of a tooth abscess, it is important to seek prompt dental treatment. Delaying treatment can lead to worsening of the infection and potential complications.

Difficulty or Pain When Chewing

One of the common symptoms of a tooth abscess is difficulty or pain when chewing. When you have an abscessed tooth, it can be painful to eat or bite down on food. This discomfort is often caused by the pressure that occurs when you chew, which can aggravate the infection and the surrounding tissues.

The pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp and intense sensation, making it difficult for you to enjoy your meals. Along with the pain, you may also experience other symptoms such as fever, swelling, and drainage.

Causes:

The pain when chewing can be attributed to the infection in the tooth and the surrounding tissues. The presence of an abscess indicates that there is a bacterial infection that has spread to the root of the tooth, causing inflammation and damage.

Treatment:

If you are experiencing difficulty or pain when chewing, it is important to seek dental treatment as soon as possible. Your dentist will be able to diagnose the abscess and formulate a treatment plan. Treatment options may include a root canal to remove the infection, a dental extraction, or antibiotics to address the infection.

In summary, difficulty or pain when chewing is a common symptom of a tooth abscess. If you are experiencing this symptom along with others such as fever, swelling, and drainage, it is essential to seek dental care promptly in order to prevent the infection from spreading further and causing more severe complications.

Throbbing Pain in the Jaw or Ear

One of the common symptoms of a tooth abscess is a throbbing pain in the jaw or ear. This pain can be intense and persistent, making it difficult to ignore. The throbbing sensation is often a result of increased blood flow and pressure in the infected area.

In addition to the throbbing pain, a tooth abscess may also cause other symptoms such as drainage of pus or fluid, swelling in the face, and a general feeling of discomfort. These symptoms indicate that an infection is present and should not be ignored.

Pain in the Jaw

The throbbing pain in the jaw can radiate to other areas of the face, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact source of the discomfort. The pain may come and go, but it tends to worsen with chewing or biting down on food. It may also be accompanied by a dull ache or a sharp, shooting pain.

Pain in the Ear

The throbbing pain in the ear is often a referred pain from the infected tooth. This means that the pain is felt in the ear, but the source of the problem is actually the tooth. The pain may be constant or intermittent, and it may increase when lying down or chewing.

If you are experiencing throbbing pain in your jaw or ear, along with other symptoms such as swelling or drainage, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to further complications and the spread of infection.

Fever and Generalized Discomfort

A tooth abscess is an infection that occurs in the tooth or the surrounding tissues. One of the common symptoms of a tooth abscess is the presence of a fever. A fever is the body’s natural response to an infection and can indicate the severity of the abscess.

In addition to a fever, individuals with a tooth abscess may also experience generalized discomfort throughout their body. This discomfort can manifest as a general feeling of malaise, body aches, and fatigue. The infection in the tooth can spread to other parts of the body, leading to these symptoms.

Facial Swelling

Another common symptom of a tooth abscess is facial swelling. The infection can cause swelling in the face, particularly around the affected tooth. The swelling may be accompanied by redness and tenderness in the affected area. If left untreated, the swelling can spread and affect other parts of the face, such as the cheeks and jaw.

Drainage and Bad Taste

In some cases, a tooth abscess may lead to the formation of a pocket of pus, which can cause drainage and a bad taste in the mouth. This drainage can occur when the abscess breaks open and releases the pus. The bad taste can be a result of the pus and bacteria present in the mouth.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek dental care as soon as possible. A tooth abscess can lead to serious complications if left untreated, including the spread of infection to other parts of the body. Prompt treatment by a dentist can help to alleviate the symptoms and prevent further complications.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of a tooth abscess. When an infection occurs in the tooth or surrounding tissues, the body’s immune system responds by sending white blood cells to the area. These white blood cells can collect in the lymph nodes, causing them to become swollen and tender.

The drainage from an abscess can also contribute to swollen lymph nodes. As pus from the abscess drains into the surrounding tissues, it can make its way to the lymph nodes, causing them to swell.

In addition to swelling, swollen lymph nodes can cause pain and discomfort. They may feel tender to the touch and can be easily felt under the skin. If the abscess is located in the face, the swollen lymph nodes may be more noticeable in the neck or jaw area.

Other symptoms that may accompany swollen lymph nodes include fever and general feelings of illness. The body’s immune system is responding to the infection, and these symptoms can be a sign that the infection is more severe or spreading.

If you have a tooth abscess and are experiencing swollen lymph nodes, it is important to seek dental treatment as soon as possible. Your dentist can diagnose and treat the abscess, helping to relieve the symptoms and prevent any further complications.

Changes in Tooth Color

One of the common symptoms of a tooth abscess is changes in the color of the affected tooth. Normally, teeth are white or off-white in color, but when an abscess is present, the tooth may become discolored.

The discoloration can vary and may appear as a gray, brown, or black spot on the tooth. This occurs because the infection associated with the abscess can cause the tooth to become discolored from the inside out.

In addition to tooth discoloration, other symptoms of a tooth abscess may include swelling, pain in the tooth or surrounding area, and drainage of pus or fluid from the abscess. If the infection spreads, it can also cause pain and swelling in the face.

If you notice any changes in the color of your tooth or experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek prompt dental care. A tooth abscess can be a serious condition that requires treatment to prevent further complications.

Tooth Abscess Symptoms: Signs of a Tooth Abscess:
Discoloration of tooth Tooth pain
Swelling Pain in jaw or face
Drainage of pus or fluid Fever
Difficulty chewing or opening mouth fully

Discharge of Pus

If you have a tooth abscess, one of the most common symptoms you may experience is the discharge of pus. Pus is a thick, yellowish fluid that is produced as a result of the body’s immune response to an infection. When a tooth becomes infected, bacteria can enter the pulp chamber and cause an abscess to form. As the infection progresses, pus can build up inside the tooth and eventually find a way to drain out.

There are several signs that you may notice if you have a tooth abscess that is draining pus. First, you may notice an unpleasant taste or odor coming from the affected tooth or the area around it. This is caused by the drainage of the pus, which can have a foul smell and taste. You may also notice a sudden decrease in swelling and pressure in the area, as the pus is being released from the tooth.

In addition to the discharge of pus, there may be other symptoms associated with a tooth abscess. You may experience pain in the affected tooth and surrounding tissues, which can be severe and throbbing. The pain may worsen when you bite down or apply pressure to the tooth. You may also notice swelling and redness in the face and gums around the infected tooth.

If the tooth abscess is severe, you may develop a fever as your body tries to fight off the infection. A fever is a sign that the infection has spread and is more serious. If you experience a fever along with other symptoms of a tooth abscess, it is important to seek dental attention right away.

In summary, the discharge of pus is a common symptom of a tooth abscess. If you notice pus coming from a tooth, along with other symptoms such as pain, swelling, and fever, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to treat the infection and prevent further complications.

Complications of Untreated Abscesses

If left untreated, tooth abscesses can lead to serious complications. Here are some of the potential complications that can arise from ignoring the signs and symptoms of an abscess:

Spread of Infection

An untreated abscess can cause the infection to spread to other areas of the body, leading to a condition known as sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can result in organ failure and even death if not treated promptly.

Facial Swelling

An abscess can cause swelling in the face, particularly in the area surrounding the affected tooth. This swelling can be painful and may interfere with a person’s ability to eat, speak, or sleep comfortably.

Fever

The presence of an untreated abscess can cause fever, as the body’s immune system tries to fight off the infection. A persistent fever may indicate that the infection is spreading and is a sign that immediate medical attention is needed.

Spread of Infection to the Sinuses or Jawbone

If left untreated, an abscess can spread to the sinuses or the jawbone, leading to complications such as sinusitis or osteomyelitis. These conditions can cause severe pain, swelling, and difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Uncontrolled abscesses can also lead to the formation of a fistula, which is an abnormal connection between the abscess and the skin or other tissues. This can result in chronic drainage and discomfort.

If you experience any of these complications or suspect you have an abscess, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Timely treatment can help prevent further complications and ensure a quicker recovery.

When to See a Dentist

If you are experiencing severe pain in your tooth, it may be a sign of a tooth abscess. Other symptoms of a tooth abscess can include drainage of pus or foul-tasting fluid, swelling in the face or jaw, and fever. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible.

A tooth abscess is a serious dental issue that requires prompt treatment. Ignoring the symptoms or delaying a visit to the dentist can lead to further complications and potential spread of infection. In some cases, a tooth abscess can even become life-threatening if the infection spreads to other areas of the body.

A dentist will be able to examine your tooth and determine the cause of the abscess. They may recommend draining the abscess and prescribing antibiotics to treat the infection. In some cases, a root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary to fully resolve the issue.

If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, don’t hesitate to seek professional dental care. Remember, early detection and treatment can help prevent further damage and promote better oral health.

Diagnosis and Treatment

When a tooth abscess is suspected, it is important to seek prompt dental care. A dentist can diagnose a tooth abscess by conducting a thorough examination of the affected area. The exam may include checking for swelling, redness, and pain on palpation. Additionally, dental X-rays or other imaging techniques may be used to determine the extent of the infection.

Diagnosis

Common signs and symptoms that may help in the diagnosis of a tooth abscess include:

  • Severe and persistent toothache
  • Throbbing pain that radiates to the jaw or ear
  • Pain that worsens when lying down
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
  • Redness and swelling of the face or gums
  • Fever and general malaise

If a tooth abscess is suspected, the dentist may also perform a percussion test, where they gently tap on the affected tooth to assess pain levels and ascertain the severity of the infection.

Treatment

The primary goal of treating a tooth abscess is to eliminate the infection and prevent its spread. Treatment options may include:

  • Drainage of the abscess: This involves creating an incision to allow the pus to drain out, providing relief from pain and reducing swelling.
  • Root canal therapy: If the abscess has affected the pulp of the tooth, a root canal procedure may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and seal the tooth.
  • Extraction of the tooth: In some cases, if the tooth is severely damaged or cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary.
  • Antibiotics: Depending on the severity of the infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the spread of bacteria.

After treatment, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent further infections. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important to monitor the affected tooth and identify any potential complications.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as severe tooth pain, swelling, or discomfort, it is important to consult a dentist promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate pain, prevent complications, and restore oral health.

Preventing Tooth Abscesses

Tooth abscesses can be extremely painful and may result in swelling or an abscess forming on the face. In some cases, a fever may also be present. These symptoms are all signs of a dental infection that may require drainage and treatment by a dentist.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help prevent tooth abscesses. The most important step is maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups are also essential for preventing infections.

Avoiding Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a common cause of tooth abscesses. To avoid tooth decay, it’s important to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. Be sure to brush your teeth after consuming these types of foods to remove any residual sugar. Drinking water throughout the day can also help rinse away food particles and bacteria.

Treating Dental Issues Promptly

If you notice any signs or symptoms of a dental issue, such as tooth sensitivity or pain, it’s important to seek prompt treatment. Ignoring dental problems can lead to more severe infections, including tooth abscesses. Regular dental check-ups can help identify and address any potential issues before they escalate.

By following these preventive measures and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing a tooth abscess. Remember, early intervention and regular dental care are key in preventing dental infections and maintaining a healthy smile.

Q&A:

What are the common symptoms of a tooth abscess?

The common symptoms of a tooth abscess include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swollen gums, facial swelling, a foul taste in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing or breathing.

How can I recognize if my toothache is caused by a tooth abscess?

If your toothache is accompanied by symptoms such as swollen gums, facial swelling, and a foul taste in the mouth, it might be a sign of a tooth abscess. It is important to seek dental attention to confirm the cause of the toothache.

Can a tooth abscess cause severe pain?

Yes, a tooth abscess can cause severe pain. The infection in the tooth can irritate the nerves and surrounding tissues, resulting in intense toothache.

What should I do if I suspect I have a tooth abscess?

If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, it is important to seek dental treatment as soon as possible. The dentist will examine your tooth and may recommend antibiotics and a root canal procedure or extraction to remove the infection.

Are there any home remedies for relieving the symptoms of a tooth abscess?

While home remedies can temporarily relieve the symptoms of a tooth abscess, it is important to seek professional dental treatment for a long-term solution. Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater, applying a cold compress to the swollen area, and taking over-the-counter pain medication can help alleviate discomfort temporarily.

What are the symptoms of a tooth abscess?

Common symptoms of a tooth abscess include severe toothache, swollen gums, sensitivity to hot or cold, bad breath, difficulty in swallowing or opening the mouth, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

How can I recognize a tooth abscess?

You can recognize a tooth abscess by looking out for signs such as persistent toothache, swollen face or cheeks, red and swollen gums, a foul taste in the mouth, and pus formation around the affected tooth.

What should I do if I suspect a tooth abscess?

If you suspect a tooth abscess, it is important to seek dental care immediately. You should make an appointment with your dentist to get a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Ignoring a tooth abscess can lead to serious complications.