Dental abscess: Warning signs you should never ignore

16 / 10 / 2026

Dental abscess: Warning signs you should never ignore

A dental abscess is a painful infection that needs proper treatment. It will not go away on its own, and if left untreated, the infection can spread. Here is how to recognise an abscess and what to do if you think you have one.

What is a dental abscess?

An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. There are two main types:

Periapical abscess: Forms at the tip of a tooth’s root, usually because decay or damage has allowed bacteria into the nerve of the tooth.

Periodontal abscess: Forms in the gum next to a tooth, often linked to gum disease.

Warning signs

• Severe, throbbing toothache that may spread to your ear, jaw or neck;
• Pain that is worse when lying down or biting;
• Swelling in your gum or face;
• A red, shiny, swollen gum or a pimple-like spot on the gum;
• A bad taste or smell in your mouth;
• Sensitivity to hot and cold;
• A loose or discoloured tooth; and/or
• Feeling generally unwell or having a high temperature.

Sometimes an abscess bursts and the pain eases suddenly. This does not mean the infection has gone. It still needs treating.

When it is an emergency

Call NHS 111 or go to a&e immediately if you have swelling that is spreading to your eye or neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or you feel very unwell with a high temperature. These can be signs of a serious spreading infection.

What to do

• Call us as early as possible and let us know your symptoms
• Take over-the-counter pain relief as directed
• Rinse with warm salt water
• Avoid very hot or cold food and drinks
• Do not apply heat to the outside of your face

How is an abscess treated?

The aim is to remove the source of infection. Depending on the tooth, this usually means:

• Draining the abscess to relieve pressure and pain
• Root canal treatment to remove the infection from inside the tooth and save it
• Extraction if the tooth cannot be saved

Antibiotics alone do not cure an abscess, but may be prescribed if the infection is spreading or you are unwell.

Costs

Urgent NHS treatment costs £27.90 from April 2026, with any follow-up treatment charged at the relevant band. A private emergency appointment costs £50.

Do not wait

If you think you have an abscess, call us on 01494 527 971 straight away.