Tooth abscess

An abscessed tooth is a tooth that has a pocket of pus in the tissue next to it. This often occurs because the inside (pulp) of a tooth is infected and the bacteria spread to the tissue underneath the tooth. An abscess usually causes throbbing pain in the tooth and red, swollen gums.

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Medical review: Adam Husney MD, Arden G. Christen DDS MSD MA FACD, Martin J. Gabica MD

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Tooth abscess

Swollen gums and abscessed tooth, with detail of an abscessed tooth and a healthy tooth

An abscessed tooth is a tooth that has a pocket of pus in the tissue next to it. This often occurs because the inside (pulp) of a tooth is infected and the bacteria spread to the tissue underneath the tooth. An abscess usually causes throbbing pain in the tooth and red, swollen gums.

Current as ofOctober 3, 2018

Author: Healthwise Staff
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica, MD – Family Medicine
Arden G. Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD – Dentistry

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.