Will antibiotics alone fix an abscess?

Almost never. Antibiotics can calm an infection down so the source can be safely treated, but the source — a dead nerve, a deep pocket, or a fractured tooth — still has to be addressed.

How is an abscess treated?

Depending on the cause, we may drain the infection, do a root canal to clean out the inside of the tooth, or remove the tooth. We discuss the options and timing once we have examined and imaged the area.

Can a dental abscess be dangerous?

Yes. Untreated dental infections can spread to the face, neck, sinus, or — rarely — into the bloodstream. Facial swelling, fever, or trouble swallowing or breathing all warrant urgent care.

Why does my pain come and go?

A nerve that dies often hurts for days, then quiets when the nerve is fully dead — but the infection in the bone keeps growing. Pain that disappears is not the same as the infection clearing.

When should I go to the ER instead of the dentist?

If you have facial swelling spreading to your eye or neck, trouble breathing or swallowing, a stiff neck with fever, or you cannot open your mouth — go to the ER. Call 911 if symptoms are severe.

Severe pain, swelling, or facial trauma?

Call us now — we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental problems.

Call (619) 265-2262

Symptom guide

Dental abscess — what to do

An abscess is a pocket of infection at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gum. It will not heal on its own and the infection can spread. Here is what to watch for and how we treat it.

Request a same-day appointment Or call (619) 265-2262

Hablamos español. Nói tiếng Việt.

This is not a diagnosis. This page describes common causes and general self-care suggestions. It cannot replace an in-person exam. If you are unsure, please call us — we will help you figure out what to do.

Possible causes

Common reasons behind abscess. Only an exam can confirm the cause for you.

✓An untreated cavity that reached the nerve and let bacteria into the bone
✓A cracked tooth that opened a path to the inner pulp
✓Severe gum disease that created a deep pocket around a tooth
✓A previous root canal that has reinfected
✓Trauma to a tooth that killed the nerve, sometimes years before symptoms appear

When to come in — or call right away

Any of the following deserves prompt evaluation. Call us today.

Facial or neck swelling — especially if it is changing the shape of your face
Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell
Difficulty swallowing, breathing, or opening your mouth
A bump on the gum that drains pus or bad-tasting fluid
A tooth that feels noticeably taller, looser, or extremely tender to bite on

Call (619) 265-2262

What you can try right now

These are general suggestions, not medical advice. Follow the directions on any product you use, and ask your dentist or doctor if you are unsure.

•Take over-the-counter pain reliever following the directions on the package.
•Rinse gently with warm salt water; do not squeeze or press on the swollen area.
•A cold compress on the outside of the cheek can ease swelling for short stretches.
•Stay well hydrated and rest until you can be seen.
•Do not place aspirin or other tablets directly on the gum — it can burn the tissue.

How KinDentists treats abscess

Treatment depends on the underlying cause — here are the services that most often resolve this for our patients.

Urgent Care

Emergency Dental Care

Urgent dental care for tooth pain, broken teeth, and dental emergencies. Same-day appointments available.

Endodontic Care

Root Canal Therapy

Modern root canal treatment to relieve tooth pain, treat infection, and save natural teeth that would otherwise need extraction.

Surgical Care

Oral Surgery & Extractions

Tooth extractions and oral surgery for damaged, problematic, or impacted teeth with a focus on comfort and clear communication.

You might also have

Tooth Pain→Swollen Jaw→Cracked Tooth→

Abscess near you

See how we help with abscess in your San Diego neighborhood — directions, transit, and same-day options.

Abscess in City Heights→

Common questions

Dental Abscess FAQ

Other common symptoms

Tooth pain Bleeding gums Cracked tooth Chipped tooth Sensitive teeth Jaw pain Wisdom tooth pain Broken tooth Bleeding gums Swollen jaw Bad breath Dry mouth Gum recession Loose tooth Canker sores Take the symptom triage quiz →

Not sure what to do next?

Call us — we will help you decide whether you need to be seen today or whether it can wait for a routine visit. Hablamos español. Nói tiếng Việt.

Call (619) 265-2262 Request a same-day appointment

Dental abscess — what to do

Possible causes

When to come in — or call right away

What you can try right now

How KinDentists treats abscess

Emergency Dental Care

Root Canal Therapy

Oral Surgery & Extractions

You might also have

Abscess near you

Dental Abscess FAQ

Will antibiotics alone fix an abscess?+

How is an abscess treated?+

Can a dental abscess be dangerous?+

Why does my pain come and go?+

When should I go to the ER instead of the dentist?+

Other common symptoms

Not sure what to do next?

Dental abscess — what to do

Possible causes

When to come in — or call right away

What you can try right now

How KinDentists treats abscess

Emergency Dental Care

Root Canal Therapy

Oral Surgery & Extractions

You might also have

Abscess near you

Dental Abscess FAQ

Will antibiotics alone fix an abscess?+

How is an abscess treated?+

Can a dental abscess be dangerous?+

Why does my pain come and go?+

When should I go to the ER instead of the dentist?+

Other common symptoms

Not sure what to do next?