Tooth Abscess Treatment in Leesburg, FL
A tooth abscess is a serious infection that causes intense pain and can spread if it is not treated. At Leading Edge Dental in Leesburg, FL , we provide prompt care to relieve your pain, clear the infection, and save your tooth whenever possible. If you have swelling or severe tooth pain, call (352) 365-6442 today.
What Causes a Tooth Abscess?
An abscess forms when bacteria invade the inner pulp of a tooth or the surrounding gum tissue. The body responds by sending white blood cells to fight the infection, creating a pocket of pus that builds pressure and pain. Common causes include untreated tooth decay, a cracked or broken tooth, failed dental work, and advanced gum disease.
Types of Dental Abscesses
- Periapical abscess: Forms at the tip of the tooth root when infection reaches the pulp.
- Periodontal abscess: Develops in the gums next to a tooth, often linked to gum disease.
- Gingival abscess: Forms in the gum tissue, often from something lodged in the gums.
Why You Should Never Ignore an Abscess
Even if the pain suddenly stops, the infection has not gone away. The nerve may have died while bacteria continue to spread to the jawbone, surrounding tissues, and in rare cases the bloodstream. Facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing require immediate attention. Learn what to do in our dental emergencies guide.
Treatment at Leading Edge Dental
We begin with an exam and digital X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging to locate the infection. Treatment focuses on removing the source of the infection while relieving pressure. Most abscessed teeth can be saved with root canal therapy and a protective dental crown. Gum abscesses are treated with drainage and periodontal therapy.
If a tooth is too damaged to save, we provide gentle extraction and discuss replacement with a dental implant. Our sedation options help anxious patients receive care comfortably. Patients from Wildwood and Fruitland Park count on our Leesburg team for prompt relief. View all conditions we treat.
Tooth Abscess FAQs
What is a tooth abscess?
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, either inside the tooth root or in the gums beside the tooth.
What are the signs of an abscessed tooth?
Severe, throbbing pain, swelling in the face or jaw, a pimple-like bump on the gums, a bad taste in the mouth, fever, and sensitivity to hot and cold are common signs.
Is a tooth abscess an emergency?
Yes. An abscess will not go away on its own and the infection can spread. Call (352) 365-6442 right away, and seek emergency medical care if swelling affects your breathing or swallowing.
How is a tooth abscess treated?
We drain the infection and treat the source, usually with root canal therapy. Antibiotics may be prescribed, and severely damaged teeth may need extraction.
Will antibiotics alone cure an abscess?
No. Antibiotics can control the spread of infection, but the source of the infection must be treated to fully resolve the abscess.
What causes a tooth abscess?
Deep tooth decay, a cracked tooth, advanced gum disease, or trauma can allow bacteria to reach the tooth pulp or gums.
Can I save a tooth with an abscess?
In many cases, yes. Root canal therapy followed by a crown allows most abscessed teeth to be saved and function for many years.
Get Relief From Tooth Pain
Do not wait for an infection to get worse. Call Leading Edge Dental at (352) 365-6442 to be seen quickly at our Leesburg, FL office.