Glendale, Arizona
Dental Abscess Treatment in Glendale, AZ
A dental abscess is a bacterial infection that has nowhere to drain. Left untreated, it spreads -- to the jaw, the neck, and in rare cases the airway. SmileScience Dental Spa provides same-day emergency appointments. If you think you have an abscess, call us now -- do not wait and see.
These are signs of a spreading infection. A dental abscess that progresses to Ludwig's angina or descending neck infection can block the airway. This is a medical emergency, not a dental appointment. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest ER. Once you are medically stable, we will coordinate your definitive dental treatment.
What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is a localized collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection inside the tooth, in the gum, or in the bone surrounding the tooth. The bacteria multiply in an enclosed space, creating pressure that causes the severe throbbing pain most abscess patients describe.
Periapical Abscess
The most common type. It forms at the tip of the tooth root when pulp tissue inside the tooth dies from decay or trauma. Dead pulp tissue becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which then eat through the root tip and infect the surrounding bone.
Typical cause: Untreated deep cavity, cracked tooth that reached the pulp, or a failed previous root canal.
Periodontal Abscess
Forms in the gum tissue or bone alongside a tooth root, usually in a pre-existing periodontal pocket. It is typically associated with gum disease but can also occur when debris becomes trapped under the gumline.
Typical cause: Advanced gum disease (periodontitis), food or foreign body impaction, or a flare-up of existing periodontal disease.
Pericoronitis (Partially Erupted Tooth Abscess)
A special case where infection develops under the flap of gum tissue covering a partially erupted tooth, most commonly a lower wisdom tooth. Food and bacteria accumulate in the space under the flap, causing intense localized infection. Pericoronitis can escalate quickly, particularly in young adults.
What Causes a Dental Abscess?
A cavity that is left without treatment eventually reaches the pulp chamber at the center of the tooth. Once bacteria colonize the pulp, the nerve and blood supply die and infection has a direct pathway to the root tip and bone.
A crack that extends into the pulp creates a bacterial entry point. Bacteria track down the crack, infect the pulp, and cause a periapical abscess at the root tip over time.
Deep periodontal pockets trap bacteria against the root. A flare of gum disease can cause bacteria to rapidly multiply in a closed space, creating an acute periodontal abscess with sudden pain and swelling.
A previous root canal that was not fully sealed, a crown placed over a tooth that was not properly treated, or extracted treatment that was never followed through can all leave bacterial reservoirs that eventually become abscesses.
Signs and Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
Abscesses vary in severity. Some present as a dull ache with a small bump on the gum; others are among the most painful conditions in all of medicine. Tap a symptom to understand what it means.
Severe, Throbbing Pain Emergency
The defining symptom of an abscess. Pain is constant and throbbing -- it does not come and go with biting. It is often described as the worst pain imaginable. May radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck.
Facial Swelling Emergency
Localized swelling around the affected tooth is common. Facial swelling involving the cheek, jaw, or neck indicates the infection has spread beyond the tooth and requires urgent evaluation.
Fever Emergency
A fever accompanying tooth pain means the body is fighting a systemic bacterial load. This is a clear signal that the infection is not contained to the tooth and requires immediate treatment -- not a wait-and-see approach.
Bad Taste or Foul Odor Call Today
A sudden rush of salty, bitter fluid -- often accompanied by immediate pain relief -- means the abscess has spontaneously ruptured. This drainage releases pressure, but it does not mean the infection has resolved. You still need treatment to eliminate the source.
Pimple on the Gum (Fistula) Call Today
A small, pimple-like bump on the gum near a tooth is a fistula -- a drainage channel the abscess has created. Pain may be minimal because pressure is releasing continuously. Do not pop it. The infection source must still be treated.
Swollen Lymph Nodes Call Today
Tender, swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck are the immune system's response to a nearby infection. When both sides are swollen simultaneously, the infection may have spread significantly.
Extreme Temperature Sensitivity Same-Day
The affected tooth is often exquisitely sensitive to both hot and cold. In some cases, even air movement against the tooth causes pain. This indicates the nerve is compromised and requires evaluation.
Pain That Worsens When Lying Down Same-Day
Abscess pain commonly intensifies when horizontal because increased blood pressure to the head increases pressure in the abscess. Many patients report being unable to sleep -- this is a reliable indicator that you are dealing with an active abscess, not simple sensitivity.
Why a Dental Abscess Is Dangerous If Untreated
A dental infection does not stay put. Without treatment, it follows the path of least resistance through bone and soft tissue. Understanding how this progression works clarifies why same-day treatment matters.
Infection is localized at the root tip or in the gum pocket. Pain and swelling are present around one tooth. This is the stage at which treatment is simplest. A root canal or extraction resolves the infection; antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce systemic involvement.
Bacteria spread through soft tissue planes beyond the tooth. Facial swelling becomes visible and spreads. The patient begins to feel generally unwell. The infection can track along fascial planes toward the neck with surprising speed.
In rare but documented cases, dental infections descend along the neck muscles and enter the mediastinum (chest cavity) or compromise the airway. Ludwig's angina -- a rapidly progressing bilateral infection of the floor of the mouth -- is a medical emergency with a significant mortality risk if not treated in a hospital setting immediately.
The key fact: The rate at which an abscess spreads depends on the virulence of the bacteria and the patient's immune system. A healthy adult might have days; someone with diabetes, immunosuppression, or other health conditions can deteriorate within hours. There is no reliable way to predict the rate of spread from home. Early treatment is the only safe course.
How We Treat a Dental Abscess
Dental abscess treatment has one non-negotiable requirement: the source of infection must be physically eliminated. Antibiotics alone reduce the bacterial load but cannot cure an abscess. Here is what treatment looks like depending on your situation.
Root Canal Therapy + Crown
The pulp chamber is accessed, the infected tissue is removed, and the canals are cleaned, shaped, and sealed. The abscess at the root tip resolves as the infection source is eliminated. The tooth is then restored with a crown. This is the preferred treatment when the tooth structure is otherwise intact -- it saves the tooth and eliminates the infection permanently.
Incision and Drainage (I&D)
When there is a fluctuant swelling (a soft, pus-filled pocket) in the gum or under the jaw, draining the abscess provides immediate pain relief and reduces bacterial load. Local anesthesia is applied, a small incision is made, and the area is irrigated and allowed to drain. This is often done at the same appointment as the root canal or extraction, or as an immediate first step when swelling is significant.
Extraction + Infection Management
When the tooth is non-restorable due to decay, fracture, or bone loss, extraction is performed. The socket is thoroughly debrided and irrigated to remove all infected tissue. Antibiotics are prescribed to manage any remaining systemic infection. Once healing is complete, the space can be restored with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.
Periodontal Debridement + Pocket Treatment
For abscesses originating in the gum (periodontal abscesses), treatment focuses on the infected periodontal pocket. The pocket is drained, and thorough scaling and root planing removes the bacterial deposits and irritants from the root surface. In some cases, localized antibiotic placement (Arestin) directly into the pocket accelerates healing. Periodontal surgery may be needed for persistent deep pockets.
Why Antibiotics Alone Are Not a Cure
This is one of the most common misconceptions about dental infections. Patients visit urgent care or an ER, receive antibiotics, feel better in a day or two, and conclude the problem is solved. It is not.
Antibiotics reduce the bacterial population in the bloodstream and surrounding tissue -- they can prevent spread and reduce symptoms. But they cannot penetrate the interior of an infected tooth because there is no blood supply left inside (the pulp has died). The bacteria inside the tooth are protected and will re-colonize as soon as the antibiotic course ends.
The result: the infection appears to resolve, then returns in weeks or months -- often worse than before, and sometimes with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The only cure is physical elimination of the infection source through root canal, extraction, or periodontal treatment.
Antibiotics are an important adjunct when there is evidence of spreading infection (fever, facial swelling, swollen lymph nodes), when the patient is medically compromised, or when surgery will be delayed. They are prescribed alongside definitive treatment -- never as a substitute for it.
Home Care While You Wait for Your Appointment
Call us first. If we can see you today -- and in most cases we can -- these steps are only needed for a few hours. If you are waiting until tomorrow, here is how to manage the night:
- Ibuprofen + acetaminophen alternatingTake 400 -- 600 mg of ibuprofen and 500 -- 1000 mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol) simultaneously if you have no contraindications. These work through different mechanisms and together provide significantly more pain relief than either alone. Follow label dosing and do not exceed daily limits.
- Cold compress -- outside the cheek onlyApply a cold pack to the swollen area in 15-minute intervals. Cold reduces swelling and has a mild numbing effect. Never apply heat to a dental infection -- it increases blood flow and accelerates bacterial spread.
- Warm salt-water rinseRinse gently with salt water to reduce bacteria around the affected area. This will not drain the abscess or cure the infection, but it keeps the area cleaner and may reduce minor surface irritation.
- Sleep with your head elevatedUse an extra pillow to keep your head above your heart. Lying flat increases blood pressure to the head, which can intensify the throbbing pain of an abscess significantly.
- Eat soft foods on the opposite sideAvoid chewing on the affected area. Stick to soft, room-temperature foods. Avoid anything very hot, very cold, sweet, or acidic, which will intensify pain.
- Do NOT do thisDo not attempt to pop or squeeze the abscess. Do not apply heat. Do not place aspirin on the gum. Do not assume that if the pain temporarily decreases overnight, the problem is resolving -- see the dentist as scheduled regardless.
Medical Review & Evidence
- Flynn TR, Shanti RM, Hayes C. Severe odontogenic infections, part 2: prospective outcomes study. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 2006;64(7):1104-1113.
- American Dental Association. Oral Health Topics: Dental Emergencies. ADA.
Dental abscesses are potentially life-threatening. This content is educational — call (480) 530-3663 for same-day emergency care at Smile Science Dental Spa, Glendale, AZ.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A dental abscess can appear to improve if it ruptures spontaneously and drains through a fistula. The throbbing pain may diminish significantly. But the infection source remains, and the abscess will reform. Without treatment, the infection progresses slowly but continuously, destroying bone and eventually spreading to adjacent structures.
Not long. If you have fever, spreading facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing -- go to the ER now, not in the morning. If the abscess is localized (pain and swelling around one tooth, no fever, no spreading swelling) -- call us today for a same-day appointment. Do not schedule for next week. Abscesses can change in severity quickly, and there is no reliable way to predict the rate of spread from home.
Anesthetizing an infected tooth can be more challenging than a healthy one because infection lowers the local tissue pH and interferes with standard anesthetic. Our team knows this and uses supplemental anesthetic techniques -- including intraosseous injections -- to achieve profound numbness even in severely infected teeth. The root canal procedure itself is painless. The relief after the infected tissue is removed is immediate and dramatic for most patients.
It depends on the clinical presentation. If the infection is well-contained and there is no fever or spreading swelling, definitive treatment (root canal or extraction) alone may be sufficient. If there is evidence of spreading infection, systemic involvement (fever, malaise, swollen lymph nodes), or if you are immunocompromised, antibiotics are prescribed alongside treatment. The decision is made based on examination findings -- not automatically prescribed for every abscess.
Yes, absolutely. A ruptured fistula means the abscess is now draining continuously, which relieves the pressure and pain. But the infection source is still there. The fistula will close, the abscess will reform, and the cycle will continue. Each cycle allows the infection to cause additional bone loss. You need treatment to eliminate the source -- not just the symptoms.
Yes. Untreated dental abscesses can cause sepsis -- a life-threatening systemic infection. They can spread to the jaw, neck, and mediastinum. People do die from untreated dental abscesses, though it is uncommon in otherwise healthy adults with access to care. The risk is higher in individuals with diabetes, compromised immune systems, or those who delay treatment significantly.
Emergency exam and X-rays: $75 -- $175. Incision and drainage (if needed): $150 -- $300. Root canal: $900 -- $1,500 depending on tooth location. Extraction: $175 -- $350. Crown after root canal: $1,200 -- $1,800. We provide a clear itemized estimate before any treatment begins. Financing through CareCredit, Cherry, and Sunbit is available with same-day approval for most patients.
The specific bacterial infection that caused your abscess is not typically contagious in the way that a cold is. However, the bacteria responsible for dental abscesses (streptococcal and anaerobic bacteria) do exist in everyone's mouths. Kissing or sharing utensils can transmit oral bacteria, which is one reason good preventive dental care matters for everyone in a household.
The root causes are tooth decay and gum disease, both of which are largely preventable. Brush twice daily, floss daily, keep regular cleaning appointments (every 6 months for most patients), and do not ignore dental pain or postpone treatment for cavities. Treating a small cavity now prevents a root canal and abscess later -- at a fraction of the cost.
What Our Patients Say
4.9 (437 reviews)
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Smile Science Dental Spa, and I couldn't be more impressed with the level of care and service provided by the entire team. Dr. Dawson and Dr. Turke are both incredibly skilled and made me feel completely at ease throughout my procedures. Their professionalism, combined with their gentle approach, made me feel comfortable and well-informed every step of the way. I was especially impressed that I was able to get a same-day crown(apparently their first ever!), which exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t believe how quick and seamless the process was. It really saved me time and made the experience even more convenient. Cindiray and Angeles, the dental assistants, were equally wonderful. They were not only friendly and attentive but also thorough in explaining everything and made sure I was relaxed during each phase of my visit. Lastly, a big thank you to Litzy at the front desk, who greeted me with a smile and helped with scheduling and any questions I had. She made the entire check-in process a breeze. From start to finish, my experience at Smile Science Dental Spa was exceptional. I'll be returning for sure. I highly, highly, highly recommend them for anyone looking for high-quality dental care.
View Full Review on GoogleDusty
Honestly I’ve never been so happy to go to the dentist. I came in (late due to Lyft) and was still taken care of and treated with care. Even without insurance (kicking in within the next month) prices for an extraction on my infected tooth were more than reasonable. I was able to get more than expected done in the same visit. Dr. Dawson and his team made me feel so comfortable and taken care of. Won’t go anywhere else.
View Full Review on GoogleCherish B
I recently started as a patient after leaving our long-time family Dentist and couldn’t be happier! Marcela is AMAZING and a FANTASTIC hygienist!!!! 😃 Dr Dawson is great too! Every time I visit, they make me feel like family.
View Full Review on GoogleTJ Winzeler
Myself and my family had previously gone to Dr. Turk at another dental office that he worked at. He had relocated and we did not know where he had gone to until this week. Today I got in with Dr. Turk and he took the time to look at my x-rays carefully . I was having pain from a tooth and some other issues. The previous Dentist I went to that I saw just a few days earlier, he did not find any issues with my tooth which I had pain in. Dr. Turk identified infection and referred me to an endodontist. He is very gentle as a wonderful disposition and my self and my family are thrilled to be able to get back with him. The office is lovely, relaxing music, heat and massage chair.I have always been very nervous and some anxiety going to dentist as I have had bad reactions with the anesthesia. I am confident that Dr. Kirk will help me get through my next appointment just fine. “The staff are very kind and attentive. I am looking forward as I have quite a bit of work to be done, and I know I’m in good hands with Dr. Turk and his staff. Five stars!⭐️ Sherry
View Full Review on GoogleSherry Redmond
I recently moved to Arizona and had an issue with a tooth repair from 15 years back. Not knowing anyone here in my new home, I searched dentists close to me. I chose Smile Science much like pinning the tail on the donkey and my selection couldn't have been better! What a terrific staff! Dr. Turke was concerned the tooth would need to be extracted, but said he wanted to take a shot at saving it..and that's just what he did! After setting a temporary crown, I was on my way with an appointment to install the permanent crown in the following two weeks. That evening I received a call I've never received from a dentist. Dr. Turke had taken the time to follow up with me to make sure I wasn't in any discomfort..I was completely caught off guard by this kind of attention to detail and caring for my well being. The permanent crown is now in place, it fits and feels fantastic, the job and treatment are first class! Thank you, Dr. Turke and staff for taking in this stray and giving me a home dentist! I'd like to say that I'm just good at selecting blindly, but the truth is I am very lucky..and I'll take lucky over being good any day of the week! Thank you, again and Happiest of New Year's in 2026, Science Smile!!
View Full Review on GoogleEddy
A Dental Abscess Won't Improve on Its Own. Call Now.
Same-day emergency appointments for dental abscesses in Glendale, AZ. SmileScience Dental Spa, 20118 N 67th Ave, Ste 308, Glendale, AZ 85308. New patients always welcome.