A dental abscess is a build-up of pus inside your tooth or gum. It usually means bacteria have reached the soft inside of your tooth.

Abscesses are painful. The pain is often throbbing and may spread to your jaw, ear, or neck. You might also notice swelling, a bad taste, or fever.

Tooth decay is the main culprit. A cracked tooth or broken filling can also let bacteria in. Untreated gum disease is another common route.

• Deep tooth decay
• Cracked or broken tooth
• Gum disease (periodontitis)
• Injury to the mouth

Treatment depends on how bad it is. Your dentist may drain the abscess and clean the area. A root canal can save the tooth. In some cases, the tooth needs to come out.

Antibiotics alone will not fix an abscess. You need dental treatment to remove the source of the infection.

Call us straight away if you have:

• Severe pain that does not settle with painkillers
• Swelling that is getting worse or spreading
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• High temperature or fever
• A hot, red, swollen face or jaw

These can be signs the infection is spreading. Do not wait — call 01323 723757 today.

Don't ignore tooth pain. The earlier we see you, the simpler the treatment. Contact Meads Village Dental Practice on 01323 723757 or visit www.meadsdental.com.