A tooth abscess can be very painful. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the root of a tooth or in the gum tissue. It occurs when a bacterial infection spreads from the tooth or gums into the surrounding tissues.

The symptoms of a tooth abscess can include severe, throbbing pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swelling in the face or jaw, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth. In some cases, the pain may radiate to the ear or neck, and the patient may experience difficulty swallowing or breathing. If left untreated, a tooth abscess can cause serious complications, including the spread of the infection to other parts of the body. Treatment for a tooth abscess typically involves draining the pus and removing the source of the infection, which may involve a root canal procedure or tooth extraction. Pain relievers and antibiotics may also be prescribed to manage pain and prevent the infection from spreading.

If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, it's important to see your dentist or an emergency dentist as soon as possible to get it treated. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious health complications and increase the risk of tooth loss.