A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to an infection, generally at the tip of the dental root or at the gumline. Your dentist should treat an abscess as soon as possible, or the infection can spread. To spot an abscess quickly, dental patients should watch out for the following symptoms.

4 Signs of a Tooth Abscess You Should Know

1. Pain

Pain is one of the main symptoms of a tooth abscess. The throbbing pain could be present throughout the day, radiating to the jaw, ears, and neck. This generally occurs when the infection puts pressure on the adjacent bone structures. You might notice the pain more when you bite down and chew. 

2. Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental condition, but sudden sensitivity could be a sign of an abscess. You might feel sharp pain when drinking a hot or cold beverage. Chewing could also trigger this sensitivity, so see your dentist if this issue persists. 

3. Discoloration

An abscess might cause the affected tooth to turn a darker color than the teeth around it. This occurs because byproducts from the pus might drain to the outer tooth layer. If the abscess is actively draining, you might not feel pain. However, this discoloration will still require treatment. 

4. Swelling

A tooth abscess can cause swelling in the gums. This particular type of swelling might look like a pimple, which could be red or drain pus. Abscesses can also cause swelling in the face and jaw. The infection may cause the lymph nodes to swell as your body tries to fight it off. 

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a tooth abscess, Dr. Robert N. Petrtyl, DDS, in Cincinnati, OH, can diagnose and treat the infection. He has over 30 years of experience as a dentist and provides a variety of general and cosmetic services. Whether you need a routine cleaning, root canal, or teeth whitening, he and his team will ensure you are comfortable in their friendly office environment. You can visit them online to view a full list of their offerings, or call (513) 554-4657 to schedule an appointment.