A gum abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. Abscesses can form when bacteria get trapped in the gums as a result of things like untreated cavities, injuries to the mouth, and inadequate oral hygiene.
It’s important to treat an abscess promptly. An untreated abscess can lead to tooth loss, cysts, and even more serious health problems. While there are some steps you can take at home to ease the pain and discomfort of a gum abscess, these are only temporary fixes. Seeing a dentist is essential.
This article will cover some home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms and manage early-stage abscesses. However, it will also emphasize the need for professional dental care, as attempting to learn how to drain an abscess on your gum at home can be dangerous.
What is a gum abscess, anyway?
A gum abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the gums because of a bacterial infection. Usually, that infection is caused by either an untreated cavity or advanced gum disease, but it can also be caused by trauma to the tooth or gums.
There are a couple of different kinds of gum abscesses. A periapical abscess develops at the root of the tooth, while a periodontal abscess occurs in the gums next to the tooth.
Here are a few signs you might have a gum abscess:
- A throbbing, persistent toothache
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Swelling in your gums or face
- Pain when you chew
- Bad breath or a yucky taste in your mouth
- Fever
Risks of trying to drain an abscess at home
Trying to drain a gum abscess on your own carries some risks. You could accidentally spread the infection to other parts of your mouth or body. You could also cause more tissue damage.
Remember that any home treatment is temporary. It won’t address what’s actually causing the abscess.
It’s important to see a dentist, who can diagnose the type of abscess you have and recommend the best course of treatment.
Home remedies for symptom relief
While it’s critical to see a dentist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, there are some things you can do at home to make yourself more comfortable while you’re waiting for your appointment.
Salt water rinse
Warm salt water rinses can help to keep the area clean, reduce inflammation, and encourage the abscess to drain.
To make a salt water rinse, dissolve about ½ teaspoon of salt in ½ cup of warm water. Rinse your mouth gently for about 2 minutes, and repeat this rinse up to 3 times each day.
Baking soda rinse
A baking soda rinse can help to neutralize the acids in your mouth and cut down on bacterial growth.
Stir about ½ tablespoon of baking soda into a glass of water. Rinse your mouth for about 5 minutes, repeating the rinse as often as you need to.
Cold compress
A cold compress can help to alleviate pain and swelling in the area.
Apply a cold compress to the affected area for about 15 minutes at a time.
Garlic application
Garlic contains allicin, which has antibacterial properties that may help fight infection.
Crush a clove of garlic and apply it directly to the infected area.
Other home remedies
Some people have found relief using other home remedies such as:
- Hydrogen peroxide rinse (mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, swish, and spit)
- Diluted oregano oil (mix 15 drops of oregano oil in 6 teaspoons of carrier oil and apply topically)
- Fenugreek tea compress
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE: ATTEMPTING GENTLE DRAINAGE
If you’re going to try to drain a gum abscess at home, it’s important to be gentle and proceed with caution. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Assessing the Abscess
First, take a look at the abscess. Is it bulging and does it look like it’s about to burst? Only attempt drainage if it looks like it’s ready to release pus. If the abscess is deep or hard, don’t try to puncture or squeeze it.
Preparing the Area
Wash your hands really well with soap and water. Then, rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
Gentle Pressure Application
Take a clean cotton swab and gently press on the swollen area to encourage drainage. Don’t push too hard. You don’t want to squeeze or poke at it forcefully, because that can hurt and spread the infection.
Cleaning and Monitoring
If any pus drains out, gently wipe it away with a clean cotton swab. Then, rinse your mouth again with warm salt water.
Keep an eye on the area. If you notice any signs of the infection getting worse — more pain, swelling, redness, or a fever — you need to see a dentist right away.
Post-Drainage Care
Keep rinsing your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. And make sure you’re brushing and flossing gently to keep your mouth clean.
Professional Dental Treatments for Gum Abscesses
While there are some things you can do at home to manage a gum abscess, professional dental treatment is usually necessary to fully resolve the infection and prevent complications. Here’s what you can expect from a dentist:
Drainage and Cleaning
First, the dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then, they’ll make a small incision in the abscess to drain the pus. Once the abscess is drained, the area is thoroughly cleaned to remove any remaining bacteria and debris.
Root Canal Therapy
If the abscess is caused by an infection inside the tooth (in the pulp), a root canal might be needed. During a root canal, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and then the tooth is filled and sealed to prevent future infection. Root canals are usually done to save the tooth.
Tooth Extraction
In some severe cases, the tooth might be too damaged to save. If this is the case, the dentist might recommend extracting the tooth to get rid of the infection.
Antibiotics
Dentists don’t usually prescribe antibiotics for a gum abscess unless the infection has spread beyond the immediate area or if you have a weakened immune system. Antibiotics help to kill bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading further.
When to Seek Immediate Professional Help
While you can try to relieve some of the pain with home remedies, you should contact a dentist right away if you notice any of the following:
- Severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers
- Swelling in your face or difficulty breathing or swallowing
- A high fever
- Signs the infection is spreading, like redness moving beyond the area of the abscess
Home remedies can’t replace professional dental care. If you have a dental abscess, it’s vital to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent serious complications. Untreated abscesses can lead to the infection spreading, jawbone damage, and even systemic health problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drain a gum abscess yourself?
While some sources online might suggest attempting to drain a gum abscess at home, it’s generally not recommended. A gum abscess is a serious infection, and improper drainage can lead to further complications, including spreading the infection to other parts of your body. It’s always best to consult a dentist.
Can I drain a tooth abscess with a needle?
Absolutely not. Attempting to drain a tooth abscess with a needle at home is extremely dangerous and can cause serious harm. You risk introducing more bacteria into the area, damaging surrounding tissues, and potentially causing a life-threatening infection. Leave this to the professionals.
What draws pus out of a tooth abscess?
A dentist will typically drain a tooth abscess by making a small incision in the gum tissue. They’ll then gently express the pus. Warm salt water rinses can help soothe the area and promote further drainage after a professional has drained the abscess, but they won’t draw out the pus on their own.
What to do if a gum abscess bursts on its own at home?
If a gum abscess bursts on its own, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water. This helps to remove debris and bacteria. Even if it bursts, it’s still crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. The underlying infection still needs to be treated to prevent it from returning or spreading.
The Bottom Line
Gum abscesses are serious infections that need prompt attention. While some home remedies may ease the pain for a short time, professional dental care is crucial for treating a gum abscess.
The best way to avoid a gum abscess is to practice good oral hygiene every day. Be sure to brush and floss regularly, and see your dentist for routine checkups. These habits are vital for keeping your mouth healthy and preventing abscesses from forming.
If you think you have a gum abscess, contact your dentist right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications and protect your oral health.