A dental abscess is a painful and serious infection that occurs in the mouth. It is a pocket of pus that forms in the teeth, gums or bone supporting the teeth. When bacteria infects the soft tissues inside the tooth, an abscess can develop.

Signs and symptoms of a dental abscess can vary depending on the severity of the infection. However, they frequently involve pain and swelling in the mouth.

Common Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

There are several common symptoms of a dental abscess that you should be aware of:.

1. Pain

Pain in the affected area is a common symptom of a dental abscess. The level of pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe, throbbing pain. The pain might be present even when you’re not using the affected tooth.

As the infection spreads, the pain may also spread to your jaw, neck, and ears.

2. Swelling

Swelling in the cheeks, face, neck, or glands can be a sign of a dental abscess. Swelling can make it difficult to open your mouth widely or even swallow.

In severe cases, swelling can cause difficulty in breathing or a feeling of tightness in the throat.

3. Sensitivity to Heat and Cold

If you experience sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink and the pain lingers for more than a few seconds, it can be a sign that you have a dental abscess.

4. Fever

If you have a fever, it can indicate that there is an ongoing infection. Fever is the body’s natural response to an infection. A fever might occur because the immune system is working to fight off the infection.

5. Bad Breath or Taste in Mouth

If you have bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, it can be a sign of a dental abscess. The taste and odor occur because of the discharge from the abscess.

Severe Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

Some severe symptoms of a dental abscess are:.

1. Difficulty Swallowing and Breathing

If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, it can be a sign of severe swelling. This can be the result of a large abscess in the mouth. If left untreated, it can become life-threatening, and emergency medical attention is required.

2. Facial Numbness

If you experience facial numbness, it can be a sign of a severe infection that has spread to the surrounding tissues. The numbness might be accompanied by tingling or a burning sensation.

3. Discolored teeth

If you have discolored teeth, it indicates a severe and prolonged infection. It occurs when the infection has penetrated deep into the tooth, damaging the pulp tissue inside the tooth and causing it to become discolored.

4. Open and Oozing Sores

If you have open sores that are discharging pus, it indicates a severe infection that may require immediate treatment. This can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Conclusion

A dental abscess can be a painful and potentially dangerous infection that requires prompt treatment. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.

Left untreated, a dental abscess can spread to other parts of the body, causing a severe infection. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help ensure a quick recovery.