Where does dental abscess form?

Right there in the: The cause of these infections is direct growth of the bacteria from an existing tooth cavity into the soft tissues and bones of the face and neck.

Above or on side : Either above the root of a tooth in the tissue or alongside the tooth in the soft tissue there. It is from bacteria and the body's response to the bacteria.

Gum or bone: A dental abscess can form anywhere in either the gum or bone.

Depends: There are 2 areas or types of abscess. 1) Tooth nerve abscess which requires root canal treatment or tooth extraction. 2) Periodontal (gum line) abscess which requires gum line treatment (deep cleaning, surgery, laser treatment, antibiotic treatment under the gum line,) or tooth extraction. Or a combination Periodontal-Endodontic abscess which is both together. See your dentist for evaluation.