A member asked:

I have a tooth abcsess what is an abcsess? is it an infection that can travel down to the jaw?

9 doctors weighed in across 4 answers
Dr. Gary Sandler answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Tooth abscess: When the nerve of a tooth "dies" or becomes necrotic, the tissues can become infected which causes a local accumulation of pus at the apex or tip of the tooth inside the jaw bone. It can spread through the bone through many pathways. It can also get into the bloodstream (although relatively rare) and cause other serious medical problems. See a dentist for an antibiotic and treatment asap!

Answered 3/1/2016

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Dr. Creighton Wright answered

Specializes in surgery

Yes: Local spreading is common by lymph, nodes cellulitis, .

Answered 1/3/2014

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Dr. Hashmat Rajput answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Tooth abscess: Abscess is the infected collection of pus pocket by bacteria in tooth or gum. Yes , it can travel to jaw, throat and neck causing difficulty in swallowing and breathing. It really can be life threatening. Immediate dental consult for drainage and antibiotic should be done. Thanks.

Answered 1/3/2014

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Yes: An abscess is an infection and needs prompt attention by a dentist.

Answered 1/7/2014

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Related Questions

A member asked:

How can I treat the pain of tooth abscess/ infection?

4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers