Posted: September 9, 2025
Dental Abscess: Symptoms, Causes, and Why Treatment Can’t Wait
By Museum Smiles Dentistry – Your Fort Worth Cultural District Dentist
A dental abscess is more than just a toothache. It’s a serious oral infection that develops when bacteria spread deep inside a tooth, gum, or bone. Left untreated, an abscess can quickly turn into a life-threatening emergency — making prompt dental care essential.
What Is a Tooth Abscess?
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. It can occur at the root of a tooth, in the gum tissue, or in the bone that supports your teeth.
At Museum Smiles, we often detect abscesses during dental X-rays in their earliest stages — before symptoms are obvious. Without treatment, the infection can spread into the jaw, face, or even the bloodstream.
Common Causes of a Dental Abscess
Several dental conditions can lead to an abscess, including:
Severe gum inflammation (periodontal disease): When bacteria penetrate inflamed gums, infection can spread to the surrounding tissue and bone.
Deep cavities: Untreated tooth decay allows bacteria to reach the inner pulp.
Tooth fractures: A crack or break in a tooth creates an entry point for bacteria.
Bone loss: Advanced gum disease can weaken bone support, leading to infection.
Symptoms to Watch For
Seek immediate care if you experience any of the following:
Severe, throbbing toothache or gum pain
Swelling of the gums, jaw, or face
Sensitivity to hot or cold
Bad taste in the mouth or drainage of pus
Fever or general illness
In extreme cases, a dental abscess can lead to breathing problems or systemic infection. This is a medical emergency and must be treated within hours.
