A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. It can form at the tip of a tooth root (periapical abscess) or in the gum beside a tooth (periodontal abscess). Left untreated, the infection can spread to the jaw, neck and beyond — making it a genuine dental emergency.
Bacteria from deep decay reach the pulp and infect the tooth root, forming a periapical abscess.
Advanced periodontitis creates deep pockets where bacteria thrive, leading to periodontal abscesses.
A crack allows bacteria to penetrate the tooth and infect the root canal system.
If a previous root canal did not fully remove infected tissue, re-infection can occur.
A blow to the tooth can damage the nerve, allowing bacteria to infect the pulp over time.
Treatment depends on severity. Options include root canal treatment to remove the infected pulp, incision and drainage to release pus, antibiotic prescription, or extraction where the tooth cannot be saved. Do not wait — an abscess will not resolve on its own.
Prices confirmed at appointment. Written cost breakdown provided before any treatment begins.
Part of our emergency dental care service in Acton
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