Will a Dentist Drain an Abscess?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection in or around a tooth. It can be very painful and—if left untreated—may spread to surrounding tissues. Many patients ask: “Will my dentist drain the abscess?” The short answer is yes: dentists can drain an abscess when appropriate, but this is usually just one part of a full treatment plan aimed at removing the source of infection and preventing it from coming back.

At Glow Dental, our priority is to relieve pain quickly, treat the infection safely, and protect your long-term oral health.

What Is a Dental Abscess?

An abscess forms when bacteria enter the tooth or gum and the body’s immune response creates a collection of pus. There are several types:

• Periapical abscess – starts inside the tooth pulp (nerve) due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma.
• Periodontal abscess – develops in the gums next to a tooth, often linked to gum disease.
• Pericoronal abscess – occurs around a partially erupted tooth (commonly wisdom teeth).

Common Symptoms

• Severe, throbbing tooth or gum pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck
• Swelling of the gum, face, or jaw; tenderness to touch
• Sensitivity to hot/cold or pressure when biting
• Bad taste in the mouth or discharge of pus
• Fever and general unwell feeling (in more serious cases)

Important: A dental abscess won’t resolve on its own. You need urgent dental care.

Will the Dentist Drain the Abscess?

Often, yes. Draining the abscess can relieve pressure and pain quickly. However, effective treatment also removes the source of infection so it doesn’t return. Depending on the diagnosis, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following:

• Incision and drainage – A small opening is made in the gum to release pus for a periodontal (gum) abscess. The area is cleaned and sometimes gently irrigated.
• Root canal treatment – For an abscess inside the tooth, the infected pulp is removed, the canals are disinfected, and the tooth is sealed to prevent reinfection. A crown may be advised later for strength.
• Tooth extraction – If the tooth is too damaged to save, removing it may be safest.
• Antibiotics – Used when the infection is spreading or there is facial swelling, fever, or systemic symptoms. Antibiotics alone do not cure a dental abscess; a procedure is usually required.

DIY or home drainage is unsafe. Squeezing or “popping” an abscess can drive bacteria deeper, worsen the infection, damage tissues, and delay proper care.

What to Expect at Your Emergency Appointment

1. Assessment: Your dentist examines the area, takes a history, and evaluates your symptoms.
2. X-rays: Used to identify whether the source is inside the tooth, the bone, or the gums.
3. Pain relief: Local anaesthetic is used to keep you comfortable during treatment.
4. Treatment plan: Drainage, root canal, extraction, or gum treatment as indicated. A temporary measure may be performed first to relieve pressure and pain, followed by definitive care.
5. Advice & prescriptions: You may receive antibiotics and painkillers if clinically appropriate, plus home-care instructions.

Does It Hurt?

With local anaesthetic, most patients feel pressure rather than pain. If tissues are very inflamed, your dentist will take extra steps to keep you comfortable.

Recovery and Aftercare

• Take prescribed medications as directed.
• Rinse gently with warm salt water after 24 hours (if advised).
• Avoid chewing on the affected side until sensitivity settles.
• Keep the area clean with careful brushing and interdental cleaning.
• Attend follow-up visits to complete treatment (e.g., finishing a root canal or placing a crown).

Pain and swelling usually improve soon after drainage or definitive treatment. If symptoms worsen or you develop new swelling or fever, contact your dentist promptly.

When to Seek Urgent Help

Contact a dentist immediately for severe toothache, swelling, or suspected abscess. Go to A&E or call emergency services if you have any of the following:

• Swelling that affects your eye, floor of the mouth, or neck
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or opening your mouth
• High fever, confusion, or feeling very unwell

Can You Prevent Dental Abscesses?

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes.
• Clean between teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes.
• See your dentist and hygienist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.
• Treat tooth decay, cracked teeth, and gum disease early.
• Avoid frequent sugary snacks and drinks; don’t smoke.

Emergency Abscess Care at Glow Dental

If you have severe toothache, swelling, or suspect a dental abscess, we can help. Our dentists in Battersea provide prompt pain relief and comprehensive treatment to remove infection and protect your smile.