Symptoms

What are the signs of an infected tooth?

Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.

Status: Approved

Short answer: Signs can include a severe, constant toothache, pain when biting, swelling of the gum (sometimes a pimple-like bump), and swelling in the jaw or face. A tooth infection won't go away on its own. For trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to the ER. Facial swelling or fever: call your nearest office during office hours.

Common signs

According to MedlinePlus, a tooth abscess usually causes:

  • A severe, continuous toothache that may be gnawing, sharp, shooting or throbbing
  • Pain when the tooth is tapped or when you bite down
  • A swollen gum over the tooth that may look like a pimple
  • Swelling of the upper or lower jaw, which MedlinePlus calls a very serious symptom

Why it needs treatment

MedlinePlus notes that the pain may stop if pressure is relieved, but the infection stays active and keeps spreading. The ADA explains that infection inside a tooth can form an abscess at the root tip. MedlinePlus says treatment may include antibiotics, a root canal to try to save the tooth, or, for severe infection, removing the tooth or draining the abscess.

Until you're seen

  • Call your dentist the same day.
  • Warm saltwater rinses and over-the-counter pain relievers may ease pain, according to MedlinePlus.
  • Don't put aspirin directly on the tooth or gums. MedlinePlus says it can irritate the tissue and cause mouth ulcers.

Emergency signs

Get emergency care for facial swelling that's spreading, fever, or trouble breathing or swallowing.

At Indy Smile Group

All three offices do root canals and extractions in-house. Call the office closest to you during office hours if you think a tooth is infected. See our emergency dentist pages for Fishers, Carmel and North Indy.

Next step

Call your nearest office during office hours. If an office is closed and you have any warning sign below, call 911 or go to an emergency room.

Frequently asked questions

Can a tooth infection go away on its own?
No. Even if pain stops, the infection can keep spreading. It needs a dentist.

Will antibiotics fix it?
Antibiotics may help control infection, but the source in the tooth still needs treatment.

Is an infected tooth an emergency?
It's urgent. Swelling, fever, or trouble breathing or swallowing need care right away.

Sources

  1. MedlinePlus – Tooth abscess
  2. ADA MouthHealthy – Abscess
  3. ADA MouthHealthy – Root Canals

Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)

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