Tooth Abscess Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
An abscess is a pocket of infection. It won’t go away on its own, and it can spread — here’s what to watch for.
Common signs
- Throbbing pain that can spread to the jaw, ear or neck
- Pain when biting
- A pimple-like bump on the gum that may leak fluid
- Bad taste or bad breath
- Swelling in the gum, cheek or jaw
- Fever or feeling unwell
Why it won’t heal by itself
Antibiotics can calm the infection for a while, but the source stays inside the tooth or under the gum. When the medicine stops, it usually comes back. The tooth needs treatment — a root canal or extraction.
When it’s an emergency
Go to the ER or call 911 if swelling spreads to your eye or neck, you have trouble breathing or swallowing, or you have a high fever. Otherwise, call a dentist the same day. Don’t pop it — squeezing can push the infection deeper.