A tooth abscess is a collection of infected material (pus) in the center of a tooth. It is due to bacterial infection

Causes

A tooth abscess is a complication of tooth decay. It may also occur when a tooth is broken or chipped. Openings in the tooth enamel allow bacteria to infect the center of the tooth (the pulp). Infection may spread from the root of the tooth to the bones supporting the tooth

Infection results in a collection of pus and tissue swelling within the tooth. This causes a painful toothache. The toothache may stop if the pulp of the tooth dies unless an abscess develops. The infection can remain active and continue to spread causing more pain and destroying tissue

Symptoms

The main symptom is a severe toothache. The pain is continuous. It can be described as gnawing, sharp, shooting, or throbbing

Other symptoms may include

Bitter taste in the mouth

Breath odor –

General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling –

Fever –

Pain when chewing –

Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold –

Swelling of the gum over the infected tooth, that may look like a pimple –

Swollen glands of the neck –

Swollen area of the upper or lower jaw — a very serious symptom –

The dentist will closely look at your teeth, mouth, and gums. You may have pain when the dentist taps the tooth. Biting or closing the mouth tightly also increases the pain. The gums may be swollen and red and may drain thick material

Dental x-rays and other tests can help your dentist determine which tooth or teeth are causing the problem