Got a Swollen Face or Throbbing Pain? It Could Be a Dental Abscess

A sudden swollen face or intense throbbing pain may be more than a typical toothache—it might signal the urgent need for an Emergency Dentist for Dental Abscess in Guildford. Dental abscesses can progress rapidly and lead to severe complications if untreated. Recognising the symptoms early and acting quickly can prevent major issues and restore your comfort and oral health.
What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It typically forms due to untreated tooth decay, broken teeth, or gum disease. The most common types are:
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Periapical abscess: Starts in the tooth pulp.
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Periodontal abscess: Starts in the gums.
Both types can cause severe discomfort, swelling, and even fever, making timely care from an Emergency Dentist for Dental Abscess in Guildford critical.
Common Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you experience any of the following, you should book an emergency appointment right away:
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Intense, throbbing toothache
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Red or swollen face or gums
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Sensitivity to hot or cold
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Difficulty swallowing or breathing
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Fever or a general feeling of unwellness
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A foul taste in your mouth
These are signs that an infection is spreading and requires immediate treatment from an Emergency Dentist in Guildford.
Why You Need Urgent Dental Care
Delaying treatment of a dental abscess can lead to:
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Bone loss around the affected tooth
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Tooth loss
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Spread of infection to other areas of the body
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Sepsis (a life-threatening response to infection)
That’s why patients are encouraged to contact a Guildford emergency dentist at the earliest sign of trouble.
Treatment Options for Dental Abscesses
The treatment depends on the severity of the infection, but typical procedures at Woodbridge Hill Dental Practice may include:
1. Draining the Abscess
The dentist makes a small incision to drain the pus, relieving pressure and pain instantly.
2. Root Canal Treatment
Infections inside the tooth may require a root canal. The infected pulp is removed, the area cleaned, and the tooth sealed.
3. Tooth Extraction
If the tooth is too damaged, it may be removed to stop the infection.
4. Antibiotics
When the infection has spread beyond the abscessed area or if there’s swelling and fever, antibiotics may be prescribed alongside the primary treatment.
By visiting an Emergency Dentist for Dental Abscess in Guildford, patients receive tailored care aimed at addressing both immediate symptoms and long-term oral health.
Why Choose Woodbridge Hill Dental Practice?
At Woodbridge Hill Dental Practice, we provide:
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Same-day emergency appointments
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Advanced imaging for accurate diagnosis
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Pain-relief options for patient comfort
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Personalised follow-up care to ensure proper healing
Our Emergency Dentist in Guildford team has experience treating all types of dental emergencies with compassion and professionalism.
Preventing Dental Abscesses
While accidents can happen, many abscesses are preventable with good oral care:
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Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
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Floss daily
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Avoid excessive sugary foods and drinks
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Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings
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Address dental pain or damage early
By following these habits and maintaining routine visits with a Guildford emergency dentist, you reduce your risk of serious infections.
How Long Can You Wait to Treat a Dental Abscess?
This is a frequently asked question—and the short answer is: you shouldn’t wait at all.
How long can you leave a dental abscess untreated?
According to WebMD, a dental abscess should not be left untreated, as the infection can spread to the jaw, neck, or even brain. Immediate dental care is recommended to avoid severe consequences. If left untreated, symptoms may worsen within days.
Read the Full Article (Source: WebMD)
When to Visit an Emergency Dentist Immediately
Seek help from an Emergency Dentist for Dental Abscess in Guildford if:
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The pain becomes severe or unbearable
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Your face starts swelling
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You develop a fever or chills
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You have difficulty breathing or swallowing
These symptoms indicate a rapidly progressing infection that needs urgent intervention from a Guildford emergency dentist.
What to Expect at Your Emergency Appointment
Here’s what typically happens:
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Assessment & X-rays – The dentist will assess the affected area and take digital X-rays.
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Treatment Discussion – Based on your case, they will suggest root canal, drainage, or extraction.
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Immediate Relief – Pain relief and antibiotics may be provided straight away.
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Follow-Up Care – You’ll receive guidance on recovery and future appointments.
Our caring team at Woodbridge Hill Dental Practice ensures a stress-free, efficient process with personalised care from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Ignoring a dental abscess is never a good idea. Fast action can prevent serious health risks, preserve your teeth, and ease your pain quickly. Whether you’re in severe discomfort or just suspect something is wrong, don’t wait—get in touch with an Emergency Dentist for Dental Abscess in Guildford today.
With expert care from Woodbridge Hill Dental Practice, your recovery starts with a single visit. We’re here to make sure your emergency is handled with urgency, expertise, and compassion.