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Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
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Ency. home > Disease > T > Tooth abscess

Tooth abscess    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Periapical abscess; Dental abscess; Tooth infection; Abscess - tooth

Symptoms

  • toothache
    • severe, continuous
    • gnawing or throbbing pain
    • sharp or shooting pain
  • pain when chewing
  • sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold
  • bitter taste in the mouth
  • foul smell to breath
  • possible fever
  • swollen glands of the neck
  • general discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling (malaise)
  • swollen area of the upper or lower jaw (very serious)

Signs and Tests

Examination of the teeth by the dentist reveals pain when the tooth is tapped. Biting or closing the mouth tightly also increases pain. The gingiva (gums) may be swollen and red and may drain thick, purulent material.

Ency. home > Disease > T > Tooth abscess

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