Tooth Abscess – Symptoms and Causes

Overview

A tooth root infection happens when bacteria create a pocket of pus near a tooth. These infections often develop at the tip of the tooth root.

This type of infection usually starts from untreated cavities, tooth damage, or complications from previous dental work.

When bacteria reach the inner parts of a tooth through cracks or deep decay, they can cause inflammation and infection. This results in the accumulation of pus at the root tip.

Treatment options include:

• Draining the infection
• Root canal procedure
• Tooth extraction (in severe cases)

Warning: Untreated tooth root infections can cause serious complications that may become life-threatening if the infection spreads.

Bacteria typically enter the tooth through:

• Deep cavities
• Chips or cracks in a tooth
• Damaged dental work

Pain, swelling, and sensitivity are common symptoms that might indicate a developing infection.

Symptoms

Tooth abscesses cause several noticeable signs:

• Intense, persistent toothache that might spread to the jaw, neck, or ear
• Temperature sensitivity causing pain with hot or cold items
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Fever
• Facial swelling that may affect breathing or swallowing
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck or under the jaw
• Bad breath
• Sudden discharge of bad-tasting, salty fluid from the mouth (if the abscess bursts), which may temporarily reduce pain

When to See a Doctor

If you notice any signs of a tooth abscess, contact your dentist right away. Don’t wait for the problem to resolve itself.

Head to the emergency room immediately if you develop a fever along with facial swelling and can’t reach your dentist. Emergency care is also necessary if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing.

These serious symptoms may suggest the infection has spread beyond your tooth to your jaw, throat, neck, or other areas, posing a serious danger.

Causes

A periapical tooth abscess occurs when bacteria infect the dental pulp, the inner part of the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and tissue.

Bacteria typically gain access through:

• Untreated dental cavities
• Cracks or chips in tooth enamel
• Damaged dental work

Once bacteria reach the pulp, they multiply and spread downward to the tooth root. The infection triggers inflammation and swelling at the root tip, creating a pocket of pus.

This painful collection of bacteria, dead tissue, and white blood cells forms the abscess.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your chance of developing a tooth abscess:

Poor Dental Hygiene

• Skipping twice-daily brushing
• Not flossing regularly
• Inconsistent dental checkups

Sugar-Heavy Diet

Foods and drinks high in sugar create an environment where bacteria thrive, leading to cavities that may eventually become abscesses. Regular consumption of sodas and sweets significantly raises this risk.

Dry Mouth Conditions

When your mouth produces insufficient saliva, tooth decay becomes more likely. This condition often results from:

• Side effects of medications
• Age-related changes
• Certain medical conditions

Complications

Without treatment, a tooth abscess will not heal on its own. Even if the abscess breaks open and the pain lessens, you still need to see a dentist.

When an abscess doesn’t drain properly, the infection can spread beyond the tooth. It may move into your jaw and other parts of your head and neck.

An infection may create a connection between the abscess and your maxillary sinus, located beneath your eyes and behind your cheek. This can lead to a sinus infection.

The most serious risk is sepsis, a dangerous infection that can spread throughout your entire body. This condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

People with weakened immune systems face even greater dangers from untreated tooth abscesses. Their bodies cannot fight the infection as effectively, increasing the risk of widespread infection.

Preventing Tooth Abscesses

Preventing tooth abscesses starts with good dental hygiene. Brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.

Clean between teeth daily using dental floss or a water flosser.

Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or when the bristles become frayed. Drinking fluoridated water strengthens tooth enamel against decay.

Diet plays a key role in prevention. Limit sugary foods and between-meal snacks that feed harmful bacteria.

Instead, choose tooth-friendly options that don’t promote decay.

For extra protection, consider using:

• Antiseptic mouth rinses
• Fluoride rinses
• Other dental products recommended by your dentist