Dental Abscess Treatment in London

A dental abscess is a painful infection that forms when bacteria enter the tooth, gums, or surrounding bone. This condition should never be ignored—without urgent care, the infection can spread quickly and cause serious complications. Our experienced dentists provide fast, effective treatment to relieve pain and prevent further damage.

Why Prompt Treatment Matters

A tooth abscess is considered a dental emergency. Left untreated, the infection may:

Spread to surrounding tissues and bone
Lead to severe facial swelling and discomfort
Enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of wider health issues

Professional intervention is the only way to resolve a dental abscess safely. Over-the-counter remedies or home attempts cannot remove the infection.

If you are in pain, call us today on 020 3773 2280 for same-day emergency treatment.

020 3773 2280

Common Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

If you are experiencing any of the following, you may have an abscess:

Persistent throbbing toothache
Swollen, red, or tender gums
Sensitivity to hot or cold drinks
Bad taste in the mouth or foul breath
Swelling in the face or jaw
Pain spreading to the ear, neck, or jawline

Any of these symptoms warrant urgent dental care.

Benefits of Professional Abscess Treatment

Choosing immediate professional treatment can:

Provide rapid pain relief
Prevent the spread of infection
Protect neighbouring teeth and gums
Restore normal eating and speaking comfort
Safeguard your long-term oral health

How a Dental Abscess Is Treated

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection. Your dentist will assess the affected area and recommend the most effective option, which may include:

Root Canal Therapy

If the infection is inside the tooth, root canal treatment is performed to remove the bacteria and save the tooth.

Tooth Extraction

In cases where the tooth is too damaged to repair, removal may be the safest way to eliminate the source of infection.

Abscess Drainage

For immediate relief, the dentist may make a small incision in the gum to release trapped pus. This is a controlled procedure carried out under local anaesthetic.

Is It Safe to Drain an Abscess at Home?

Attempting to puncture or press on an abscess yourself is extremely dangerous. Doing so can push bacteria deeper into the tissues and bloodstream, making the infection worse. Only a qualified dental professional should carry out drainage safely.

Cost of Dental Abscess Treatment

The cost varies depending on the treatment required:

Root canal treatment is generally more expensive but allows the tooth to be saved.
Tooth extraction is usually less costly but involves the loss of the tooth.
Emergency appointments may have an additional fee.

Our team will always discuss costs in advance and explain the most suitable options for your case.

Don’t wait for the infection to worsen—call us today to book your emergency appointment on 020 3773 2280

020 3773 2280

Aftercare and Recovery

Following treatment, you may experience mild tenderness or swelling, which usually improves within a few days. Your dentist may recommend:

Prescribed antibiotics if the infection was severe
Pain relief medication
Saltwater rinses to aid healing
Avoiding very hot or cold foods for several days
Attending follow-up appointments to monitor recovery

Who Is Suitable for Abscess Treatment?

Anyone experiencing swelling, toothache, or signs of infection is a candidate for treatment. Even if symptoms improve temporarily, an abscess will not heal on its own. Professional dental care is essential to remove the infection completely.

Alternatives to Abscess Treatment

There are no true alternatives to professional dental treatment for an abscess. Temporary relief methods, such as taking painkillers or applying a cold compress, may reduce discomfort but will not resolve the infection. The only safe long-term solution is intervention by a dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a dental abscess life-threatening?

If untreated, yes. The infection can spread beyond the mouth and cause serious health complications.
What should I do if the abscess bursts on its own?

Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and contact your dentist immediately. A burst abscess does not mean the infection has gone away.
How quickly can I be seen for treatment?

We offer same-day emergency appointments wherever possible to provide rapid relief.
Can an abscess come back after treatment?

Yes, if the underlying cause is not resolved. That is why professional care and follow-up are so important.

Your Trusted Dental Team

Our London practice is committed to providing swift, expert care for dental emergencies. With extensive experience in treating abscesses, our dentists use the latest techniques to stop infection, relieve pain, and restore health.

Call 020 3773 2280 now or book online to secure your emergency appointment. Relief is only one call away.