A dental abscess is a pus-filled pocket in the gums or teeth that's caused by bacterial infection.  It's a serious condition that requires immediate treatment by a dentist.

Symptoms of Dental Abscess:

• Swelling in the face, gums, or jaw
• Redness and inflammation of the skin
• Tenderness or looseness of the affected tooth
• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Fever or feeling generally unwell
• A severe, throbbing toothache that may come on suddenly
• Pain that spreads to the jaw, ear, or neck
• Pain that's worse when lying down

Causes of a Dental Abscess:

• Tooth Decay
• A broken, chipped or injured tooth
• Gum Disease
• Other health factors

Treatment:
In most cases, your dentist will need to prescribe an antibiotic to help treat the infection.  In some cases, the abscess may need drained and an abscess could lead to the tooth needing pulled.   Early detection is key to quick and effective treatment.

Complications:
If left untreated, a dental abscess can spread to other parts of your face, neck or head.  These infections can lead to serious and/or life-threatening complications, it is crucial to seek help quickly if you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above and to follow the doctor's treatment recommendations.

Watch the video below to learn more about the treatment of a dental abscess.