What Is an Abscessed Tooth?
An abscessed tooth is a painful bacterial infection that develops either at the root of a tooth or in the space between a tooth and the surrounding gum tissue. It is considered a dental emergency in many cases — if left untreated, a dental abscess can spread to the jaw, neck, and surrounding tissues, and in rare but serious cases, the infection can become life-threatening. Prompt treatment by a licensed dentist is essential.
If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, swelling, or fever in the Calgary NW area, do not wait — contact a dental clinic right away. You can also visit our Emergency Dentist NW Calgary page for immediate guidance.
What Causes a Dental Abscess?
A tooth becomes abscessed when bacteria enter the tooth or surrounding gum through a crack, cavity, or gap. Several factors can make this more likely:
- Severe tooth decay that has reached the inner pulp of the tooth
- Trauma to the tooth, such as a hard blow or impact
- Broken or chipped teeth that expose inner tooth structure to bacteria
- Recent dental work, such as a crown or filling, in rare cases where infection develops afterwards
- Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) that allows bacteria to penetrate below the gumline
Gum disease in particular is a leading contributor to periapical and periodontal abscesses. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, our Periodontal Care team can help manage the condition before it progresses to a serious infection.
Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
Recognising the signs of a dental abscess early can prevent the infection from spreading. Common symptoms include:
- Severe, persistent toothache that may throb or radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck
- Swelling and redness of the face, cheek, or gums
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Fever and general feeling of illness
- Pus drainage or a foul taste in the mouth
- Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck
- Difficulty fully opening your mouth or swallowing
- Oral swelling or a visible pimple-like bump on the gum
If you experience difficulty breathing or swallowing alongside swelling, seek emergency medical care immediately, as this may indicate the infection has spread beyond the mouth.
How Is a Dental Abscess Diagnosed?
A licensed dentist can usually diagnose a dental abscess through a clinical examination combined with dental X-rays. The X-ray allows the dentist to see the extent of the infection, assess bone loss around the tooth, and determine the most appropriate course of treatment. At Expressions Dental, we use Digital X-Rays to get accurate, low-radiation imaging quickly so your care can begin without delay.
Treatment Options for a Dental Abscess
Treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection. A licensed dentist in Calgary NW may recommend one or more of the following approaches:
Root Canal Treatment
If the infection has reached the inner pulp of the tooth, Root Canal Treatment is often the preferred option to save the tooth. The dentist removes the infected pulp tissue, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and seals the tooth to prevent reinfection. A dental crown is typically placed afterwards to protect and restore the tooth.
Incision and Drainage
If a significant pocket of pus has formed, the dentist may make a small incision to allow the abscess to drain. This provides immediate relief from pressure and pain. Unless the abscess ruptures on its own, drainage is often necessary for the infection to fully resolve.
Tooth Extraction
When a tooth is too severely damaged to be saved, Tooth Extraction may be recommended. Removing the tooth eliminates the source of the infection. Your dentist will discuss tooth replacement options — such as a dental implant or bridge — once the infection has fully cleared.
Antibiotics and Pain Relief
Antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the spread of infection, particularly if there are signs it has moved beyond the tooth. Pain relievers may also be recommended to manage discomfort during recovery. Antibiotics alone cannot cure a dental abscess — the source of the infection must always be treated directly.
Can a Dental Abscess Be Prevented?
While not all abscesses are preventable, maintaining good oral hygiene significantly reduces your risk. Regular professional cleanings, prompt treatment of cavities, and routine dental check-ups all help keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you are overdue for a cleaning, our Dental Hygienist Calgary team is here to help.
Get Prompt Abscess Treatment at Expressions Dental in Calgary
A dental abscess is not something to manage at home or wait out. At Expressions Dental, our licensed dental team in Calgary NW is experienced in diagnosing and treating dental infections quickly and compassionately. Whether you need emergency care, root canal treatment, or a full assessment, we are here to help you find relief and protect your long-term oral health.
Do not delay — contact Expressions Dental today to book an urgent appointment or visit our Emergency Dental Care page to learn more about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a dental abscess feel like?
A dental abscess typically causes a severe, throbbing toothache that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck. You may also notice swelling in your face or gums, sensitivity to temperature, a foul taste in your mouth from draining pus, and sometimes fever. If you have these symptoms, see a dentist as soon as possible.
Is a dental abscess a dental emergency?
Yes, a dental abscess should be treated as a dental emergency, especially if you have swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. The infection can spread beyond the mouth and become life-threatening if left untreated. Contact an emergency dentist in Calgary NW right away if you suspect an abscess.
Can a dental abscess go away on its own?
A dental abscess will not resolve on its own without professional treatment. While an abscess may occasionally rupture and temporarily relieve pressure, the underlying infection remains and will continue to spread without proper dental care. Antibiotics may help control the infection but cannot cure it alone — the source must be treated by a dentist.
What is the most common treatment for an abscessed tooth?
The most common treatments are root canal therapy, incision and drainage, or tooth extraction, depending on how severely the tooth has been affected. Root canal treatment is often preferred when the tooth can be saved, as it removes the infected tissue while preserving the natural tooth structure. Your dentist will recommend the best option after a clinical examination and X-rays.
How long does it take to recover from a dental abscess treatment?
Recovery time varies depending on the treatment performed and the severity of the infection. Most patients experience significant pain relief within a day or two of treatment. Complete healing of the surrounding tissues may take a week or more, and your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers to support your recovery.
Can I go to Expressions Dental for a dental abscess without an appointment?
Expressions Dental welcomes patients who need urgent care. We offer walk-in dental services for situations like dental abscesses where prompt treatment is needed. Visit our <a href="https://expressionsdental.ca/services/walk-in-dental-care-calgary-nw/">Walk-In Dental Care Calgary NW</a> page or call the clinic directly to arrange same-day care.
How can I prevent a dental abscess from developing?
The best prevention is maintaining good oral hygiene — brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending routine dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Treating cavities and cracked teeth promptly before they worsen also significantly reduces your risk of developing an abscess. Regular visits to a licensed dentist help catch problems early before they become serious infections.