Signs You May Have a Dental Abscess or Infection

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. It can form at the tip of a tooth root (periapical abscess) or in the gums beside a tooth root (periodontal abscess). Symptoms that indicate you need emergency care include:

• Severe, persistent, throbbing toothache that radiates to your jaw, neck, or ear
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Pain or sensitivity when chewing or biting
• Swelling in your face, cheek, or lymph nodes
• Fever and general feeling of being unwell
• Foul-smelling or foul-tasting fluid in your mouth (if the abscess ruptures)
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

If you experience difficulty breathing, swallowing, or develop a high fever with facial swelling, seek emergency medical care immediately—these are signs of a potentially life-threatening infection.

What to Expect During Your Emergency Visit

When you arrive at our office, Dr. Benjamin Shirley will conduct a thorough examination and take digital X-rays to determine the extent of the infection. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the abscess, and may include draining the abscess to eliminate the infection, prescribing antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading, performing root canal therapy to save the affected tooth, or extracting the tooth if it cannot be restored.
Our priority is to eliminate your pain, stop the infection from spreading, and preserve your natural tooth whenever possible. We’ll also discuss what caused the abscess and how to prevent future infections.

At-Home Care Before Your Appointment

While waiting for your emergency appointment, you can take these steps to manage discomfort:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
• Avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages
• Sleep with your head elevated to reduce throbbing
• Avoid pressing on or touching the affected area

Never attempt to drain an abscess yourself, and do not ignore the symptoms hoping they will go away. A dental abscess will not heal on its own and requires professional treatment.

Book an Emergency Abscess Appointment in Manhattan

Don’t wait when it comes to a dental abscess or infection—delaying treatment can lead to serious health complications. At Upper West Side Dental, we provide fast, effective emergency care to eliminate your pain and stop the infection before it spreads.
📞 Call (917) 261-7555 or book an emergency appointment online now.
Serving the Upper West Side, Harlem, and Morningside Heights with prompt emergency dental care for abscesses and dental infections.