The pain may be localized around the tooth, but it can also radiate to the ears, jaws, neck, or cheeks. [4] X Expert Source Pradeep Adatrow, DDS, MSBoard Certified Dentist & Oral Surgeon Expert Interview. 5 November 2020. You may not be able to tell exactly where the pain is coming from. You might also feel irritated after spending a night in pain and struggling to sleep. The pain may be accompanied by a sense that your tooth is moving. The entire area around the tooth may look red and swollen. If you have a severe toothache that goes away, do not assume the abscess is gone. It is more likely that the abscess has killed the pulp and the infection remains. The pain may go for a while, especially if you have taken painkillers or an anti-inflammatory medication, but the infection will form an abscess again in no time.
A pericoronitis abscess is one that can be located near the lower wisdom teeth. This type of abscess can cause your masseter muscles to block (also known as trismus), making it almost impossible to open or close your mouth. [7] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source
Your gum also might swell over the impacted tooth. This could resemble a pimple. [9] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
If the abscess breaks, you may experience a sudden relief from the pain along with a salty taste. [13] X Expert Source Pradeep Adatrow, DDS, MSBoard Certified Dentist & Oral Surgeon Expert Interview. 5 November 2020. You should still see your dentist right away.
An abscess is a serious problem. You should visit the dentist as soon as possible. A dentist can identify the source of the abscess, prescribe painkillers and antibiotics, and treat the abscess itself (i. e. through draining, root canal, or tooth extraction).
Cavities and trauma typically lead to a “periapical abscess. ”
Gum injuries and gum disease typically lead to a particular kind of infection known as a “gingival abscess” (or “gum abscess”). If the infection extends to the gum pockets, and the draining of pus is blocked by the swallowed gum, it is then called a “periodontal abscess. ”
