A dental abscess is one of the most common reasons patients call us in a panic and for good reason. Left untreated, an infection in the mouth doesn’t just stay in one tooth; it can spread to your jaw, face, and in rare but serious cases, your bloodstream.
Common Signs of a Dental Abscess
- A persistent, throbbing toothache
- Swelling in the face, cheek, or jaw
- A small, pimple-like bump on the gum that may drain fluid
- A bad taste or odor in the mouth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold that lingers
- Fever, in more advanced infections
- Tender or swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Why You Shouldn’t Wait This One Out
Antibiotics alone don’t cure a dental abscess, the infection source (usually inside or around the tooth) needs to be treated directly, whether through a root canal, drainage, or in some cases extraction. Waiting typically means more pain, a longer recovery, and a higher chance of the infection spreading.
As one of our patients shared after coming in with an abscess: “The team here was so understanding and gentle. They made me feel comfortable and got me out of pain.”
What Treatment Looks Like
After an exam and X-ray, we’ll determine the best path, often a root canal to save the tooth, or drainage to relieve pressure and pain immediately, followed by a full treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dental abscess go away on its own? No. It may seem to improve temporarily if it drains, but the underlying infection remains and typically returns, often worse.
Is a dental abscess a medical emergency? It can be, especially with facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. In those cases, seek care immediately.
Will I need antibiotics and a procedure? Often both, antibiotics can help control spreading infection, but the tooth itself usually needs treatment to fully resolve it.
Get Ahead of the Infection
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms anywhere in Lakewood, Tacoma, University Place, Steilacoom, or nearby Pierce County communities, don’t wait for it to worsen. We’re open 7 days a week — 9 AM–9 PM most days, with evening hours (5–9 PM) on Mondays and Fridays.
Call +1 (253) 921-9506 today for same-day abscess evaluation and treatment.