Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is a painful infection at the root of a tooth. It’s most commonly caused by severe tooth decay.

These problems can cause openings in the tooth enamel, which allows bacteria to infect the center of the tooth. The infection may also spread from the root of the tooth to the bones supporting the tooth.

What Are the Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth?
A toothache that is severe and continuous and results in gnawing or sharp or shooting pain are common symptoms of an abscessed tooth.

Other symptoms may include:
* Fever
* Pain when chewing
* Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold
* Bitter taste in the mouth
* Foul smell to the breath
* Swollen neck glands
* General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling
* Redness and swelling of the gums
* Swollen area of the upper or lower jaw
* An open, draining sore on the side of the gum

If the root of the tooth dies as a result of infection, the toothache may stop. Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean the infection has healed; the infection remains active and continues to spread and destroy tissue. Therefore, if you experience any of the above listed symptoms, it is important to see a dentist even if the pain subsides.