A member asked:

Will a dental xray most always show a dental infection/abcess? had crown 4 months ago. have some swelling now, but xray doesn't show abcess.

15 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Theodore Davantzis answered

Specializes in Dentistry

It usually does...: ...but not always. Especially if the tooth became non-vital recently. The swelling can be caused by a periodontal pocket, which can be tested with a periodontal probe. A fracture may also go undetected. If your dentist has difficulty determining the health of the tooth, please see an endodontist. Radiographs do not reveal everything...

Answered 4/14/2016

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Dr. Peter Karsant answered

Specializes in Dentistry

X-ray: will show abscess only when 30% of the calcium has been dissolved by the acidic environment of the infection. See your dentist and get the infection treated.

Answered 10/28/2014

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Dr. Paul Grin answered

Specializes in Pain Management

Not Always: It can take awhile before the infection will show up on an x-ray. A tooth abscess won't go away without treatment and the infection may spread to your jaw, cheeks, sinus and to other areas of your head and neck. Dentist will treat a tooth abscess by draining it and getting rid of the infection. See your dentist again for diagnosis and treatment.

Answered 11/21/2014

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Related Questions

A member asked:

Please tell me, could a dental xray show an abscess?

4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers