Treatments

Health & Comfort

Abscess Infections

Inside each tooth is a tube containing nerves and blood vessels. If the tooth dies, the nerves and blood vessels break down, and a pus ball of infection develops. First-line treatment is performing a root canal where the nerve tube is cleaned, disinfected and filled with a hard rubber-type material. The nerve tube of each tooth is differently shaped and can have many tiny branches off it, similar to plant roots. So, although root treatments are very successful, sometimes, no matter how the dentist treats the tooth, an abscess can persist afterwards.

An abscess is inside the jaw bone, and it is unideal to leave infection in your body as inflammatory products can spread via your bloodstream and cause disease. We provide a surgical treatment where the gum is lifted up and the abscess cleaned out directly. This can prolong the lifespan of a compromised tooth and is fantastic for a person’s general health since the infection has been removed from their body. 

Before, the abscess is the dark halo around the tooth root tip.
After, the whitish bone has healed after surgical removal of the abscess.

Signs You May Have an Abscess

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist promptly. Early treatment can prevent the infection from spreading and protect both your oral and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a dental abscess?

A dental abscess develops when the nerve inside a tooth dies and bacteria multiply in the empty space, leading to a build-up of pus. This can happen due to decay, trauma, or deep cracks in the tooth.

Can a root canal always cure an abscess?

Root canal treatment is highly successful in most cases, but because each tooth has complex nerve canals with tiny branches, sometimes bacteria remain hidden and the abscess persists.

What happens if an abscess is left untreated?

Leaving an abscess untreated is not recommended. The infection can spread into the jawbone, surrounding tissues, and even into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of more serious health problems.

What is the next step if a root canal doesn’t work?

If a root canal fails to fully clear the infection, we may recommend a surgical procedure called an apicectomy. This involves lifting the gum, cleaning out the abscess directly, and sealing the root tip to prevent reinfection.

Is the surgical treatment painful?

No – the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during treatment. Afterwards, you may experience some mild swelling or tenderness, but this usually resolves within a few days.

Does treating an abscess improve overall health?

Yes. Removing the infection not only saves the tooth but also protects your general health. Chronic dental infections can release inflammatory products into the bloodstream, which can contribute to other health problems if not addressed.

Can an abscessed tooth always be saved?

Not always. If the infection is severe or the tooth structure is badly compromised, extraction may be the best option. Your dentist will always discuss all available choices and their long-term outcomes with you.

How long does the surgical treatment take?

The procedure is usually completed in a single visit, often lasting less than an hour depending on the complexity. Recovery is typically straightforward.

How can I prevent another abscess from forming?

Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and prompt treatment of cavities or cracks reduce the risk of future abscesses. If you’ve had root canal treatment, maintaining excellent cleaning around that tooth is especially important.

What are the success rates of surgical abscess treatment?

Surgical cleaning and sealing of the root tip has a high success rate in extending the life of the tooth. In many cases, this treatment allows the tooth to remain healthy and functional for years.