A dental abscess is a collection of pus that can form inside the teeth, in the gums or in the bone that holds the teeth in place. It’s caused by a bacterial infection.

An abscess at the end of a tooth is called a periapical abscess. An abscess in the gum is called a periodontal abscess.

Dental abscesses are often painful, but not always. In either case, they should be looked at by a dentist.

The 3 main types of abscess are:

  • Gingival
  • Periodontal
  • Periapical

Less common are:

  • Pericoronal abscess
  • Combined periodontial-endodontic abscess

They share similar symptoms, but as they originate from different parts of the mouth, the treatment required can differ.

It’s important to get help as soon as possible, as abscesses do not go away on their own.

They can sometimes spread to other parts of the body and make you ill.

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