How to Treat a Tooth Abscess

When bacteria invades a tooth cavity it is likely to result in an abscessed tooth. An abscessed tooth is an infected tooth. This does not only affect the tooth or the mouth in general, but can then spread to the jaw, the gums, the facial bones, the throat and underneath the tongue. Pus will be noted around the tooth, as well as swelling. Learn some common ways to treat an abscessed tooth.

• See your dentist so that he can drain the pus surrounding the tooth. He will probably give you an oral antibiotic for the infection.


• If the abscess surrounding the tooth and gum breaks open on its own, you should still see a dentist. He will want to be sure that there is nothing more serious going on and to start you on an oral antibiotic.


• If you are prescribed an antibiotic be sure to finish the entire course of antibiotic treatment. Do not just take the medication until you feel better and then stop.


• Swish your mouth out with warm water several times a day. This will encourage the pus to drain and exit your system. It will also help to keep the area clean.


• Taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory will help to alleviate some of the pain that you are experiencing.


• Further dental treatment may involve having a root canal performed by your dentist if the abscess recurs. You may also need to have the offending tooth pulled out.


• Taking a garlic capsule three times a day may help to decrease your chances of getting an infection.


• Vitamin C may be helpful in giving your immune system a boost. Take 1000 mg three times a day.


• You can make an ice pack to put on your face to decrease any swelling and numb the area from the pain.


• Applying an infant teething medication will help to numb the area and relieve some of the pain. You can apply this on a moistened cotton ball and leave the cotton ball in place over the infected tooth and surrounding area.