Abscesses are infections that occur around the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. Abscesses are a serious condition that can damage tissue and surrounding teeth, with the infection possibly spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Because of the serious oral health and general health problems that can result from an abscess, see your paediatric dentist as soon as possible if you discover a pimple-like swelling on your child’s gum that usually is painful.  In the meantime, to ease the pain and draw the pus toward the surface, try rinsing your child’s mouth with a mild salt water solution (1/2 teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day.  Use syringe if your child cannot rinse mouth.

If your child have any of the following, go to a hospital emergency room.  Your child may need IV antibiotics immediately.

• Swelling of the face

• Redness around the face

• Fever

• Difficulty swallowing