A dental abscess is an active infection that does not resolve on its own. Swelling, severe pain, and fever mean you need same-day treatment. Call Zapata Dental now — we see abscess patients the same day.
If you have facial swelling, fever above 101°F, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing — go to the nearest emergency room immediately. These are signs the infection has spread beyond the tooth.
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It forms at the root of a tooth (periapical abscess) or in the gum next to a tooth (periodontal abscess). Left untreated, it spreads — to the jaw, neck, and in serious cases, the bloodstream.
Dr. Zapata drains the abscess, prescribes antibiotics to clear the infection, and addresses the source tooth — either through root canal therapy to save it, or extraction if the damage is too extensive.
Persistent, intense pain that doesn't let up — may radiate to jaw, ear, or neck.
Visible swelling of the cheek, jaw, or gum near the affected tooth.
A temperature above 99°F indicates the infection is systemic. Seek care immediately.
A sudden bad taste and relief from pain may mean the abscess ruptured — still requires treatment.
Extreme sensitivity that lingers after the temperature source is removed.
Go to the ER immediately — this means the infection has spread to the airway.
Dr. Zapata makes a small incision to drain the pus, providing immediate relief. The area is rinsed to remove remaining bacteria.
A course of antibiotics is prescribed to eliminate remaining bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading further.
The infected tooth is treated with root canal therapy (to save it) or extraction (if it's too damaged to restore). This prevents recurrence.