Untreated Tooth Abscess: Risks, Symptoms & Standard Treatment

If an abscessed tooth goes untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including:

- Spreading infection to the jaw, neck, or brain

- Bone loss

- Tooth loss

- Difficulty breathing or swallowing

- Fever, chills, and general malaise

- Sepsis, a potentially life-threatening infection of the bloodstream

The normal treatment for an abscessed tooth typically involves a root canal or extraction.

Root canal

During a root canal, the infected pulp is removed from the tooth and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. This procedure can usually save the tooth and prevent the need for extraction.

Extraction

In some cases, the tooth may be too severely damaged to be saved and must be extracted. This is usually the case if the infection has spread to the bone or if the tooth is broken.

In addition to these treatments, antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear up the infection. Pain relievers can also be used to manage pain.

It is important to see a dentist as soon as possible if you think you may have an abscessed tooth. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.