Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Reading time: three minutes.
A dental abscess does not happen overnight. It starts with a small area of decay and slowly progresses deeper into the tooth until infection reaches the root. Recognizing each stage can help you get treatment early and prevent severe pain or complications.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Tooth Abscess?
- The Stages of a Tooth Abscess
- Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess
- Visit Clearwater Dentistry in Greeley, CO
- FAQs
What Is a Tooth Abscess?
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection inside or around a tooth. These infections can begin from tooth decay, gum disease, or injury that allows bacteria to enter the tooth. Once bacteria invade, they multiply fast, damaging surrounding gum tissue, bone, and sometimes affecting nearby lymph nodes.
Depending on the type, an abscess may be a periapical abscess (at the root tip), periodontal abscess (in the supporting tissues), or gingival abscess (on the surface of the gums).
The Stages of a Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess develops gradually as bacteria move deeper into the tooth. Each stage represents a worsening infection, beginning with pulp inflammation and, if untreated, spreading to surrounding tissues and even the bloodstream.
Stage 1: Early Tooth Decay
The first stage begins when bacteria enter the tooth’s inner pulp through deep decay, a crack, or trauma. The pulp becomes inflamed, causing sensitivity to hot or cold and a dull ache. This inflammation is reversible at first, but if ignored, it can lead to infection.
Stage 2: Pulpal Necrosis
As infection worsens, blood flow to the pulp is cut off and the tissue inside the tooth begins to die. Pain may decrease temporarily, but the bacteria remain active. This stage marks the beginning of irreversible damage and can only be treated with a root canal or extraction.
Stage 3: Abscess Formation
Bacteria spread beyond the pulp and form a pocket of pus near the tooth root. This buildup increases pressure inside the bone, causing severe, throbbing pain, swelling, and sometimes a bad taste or draining bump on the gums.
Stage 4: Infection Spreads Beyond the Tooth
If untreated, the infection can move into the jawbone, gums, and surrounding tissues. Swelling may extend to the face or neck, and the body responds with fever and fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause conditions like osteomyelitis (bone infection) or Ludwig’s angina, which can restrict breathing.
Stage 5: Rupture or Sepsis
At the final stage, the abscess may rupture, temporarily easing pressure but leaving bacteria behind. If the infection enters the bloodstream, it can cause sepsis, a life-threatening complication that requires immediate medical care.
Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess can cause a wide range of symptoms that worsen as the infection progresses. Early recognition helps prevent serious complications and allows your dentist to begin treatment before the infection spreads.
Common signs include:
- Persistent, throbbing toothache that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure
- Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw
- A pimple-like bump on the gums that may release pus
- Red or inflamed gum tissue around the affected tooth
- Foul taste or odor in the mouth
- Fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes
- Difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing, or chewing
Pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, constant pressure that disrupts daily activities or sleep. If you experience any of these symptoms—especially swelling, fever, or spreading pain—contact your dentist right away. Prompt care is essential to stop infection and protect your overall health.
Visit Clearwater Dentistry in Greeley, CO
Tooth pain rarely improves without treatment. Routine checkups help catch small issues early before they develop into painful abscesses or infections.
If you are in pain or need urgent care, Clearwater Dentistry offers same-day appointments to provide fast, effective relief. To book an appointment at our dental office in Greeley, CO, call (970) 515-3550 or visit us at 3110 67th Ave Pl, Greeley, CO.
FAQs
A tooth abscess usually develops over several days to a few weeks. It begins with untreated tooth decay or gum disease, progresses to a bacterial infection in the tooth pulp, and eventually forms a pus-filled pocket near the tooth root. Pain and swelling increase as the infection spreads.
During pregnancy, dentists may prescribe safer antibiotics like Amoxicillin, ampicillin (category B), and penicillin VK, depending on the patient’s medical history and allergy status. These options effectively control dental infections while minimizing risk to the baby. Always consult your dentist or physician before starting antibiotics.
A severe dental abscess causes constant, throbbing tooth pain, noticeable facial swelling, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. You might also have trouble swallowing or opening your mouth. These are signs the infection has spread beyond the tooth and needs immediate dental treatment or emergency care.
If you are searching for an emergency dentist near you in Greeley, CO, Clearwater Dentistry offers same-day appointments for patients with abscessed teeth, swelling, or severe pain. Call (970) 515-3550 to get urgent care fast.
