Dental abscess
A dental abscess is a build-up of pus in the teeth or gums caused by an infection. It needs urgent treatment by a dentist. A dental abscess will not go away on its own.
This page is based on the advice at NHS dental-abcess
Symptoms of a dental abscess
Signs of a dental abscess include:
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intense toothache or pain in your gums
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redness inside the mouth, or outside the mouth on the face or jaw
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sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink in the affected area
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a bad taste in your mouth
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difficulty opening your mouth and chewing food
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a swollen face or jaw
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a high temperature
Ask for an Urgent dentist appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:
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you think you have a dental abscess
Do not go to a GP surgery as they will not be able to give you dental treatment.
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
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you are finding it hard to breathe
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have a swollen or painful eye, or suddenly start having problems with your eyesight
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have a lot of swelling in your mouth
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Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
For patients who do not require emergency treatment please apply for registration and we will aim to get back to you as soon as possible within practice hours.
Outside practice hours please call NHS 111 or get help from 111 online