Dds #: how likely is it that a tooth furcation (1-3 mm) caused a gum abscess? root tip is not compromised.

Possible: Certainly if food or other debris gets caught in the furcation you can get an abscess. Your oral hygiene at home is paramount for preventing this from occurring.

Somewhat possible: If you fail to keep the furca clean, food or deposits can cause agum abscess. Good home care is essential. And periodic visits to a periodontist is recommend.

Very possible: A furcation involvement and bone loss will cause food impaction and without a drainage, a gum abscess will occur. If it is not through and through, grafting can be predictable with elimination of the cause of furcation must be achieved (enamel projection, accessary canal, malocclusion).

Morel likely: Gum abscesses can occur with or without a tooth furcation. The furcation is an area where it becomes more difficult for you to keep clean and therefore more likely to happen. Discuss treatment options with your periodontist.

Possible & probable: Furcation-involvement (1-3 mm) is not a separate entity but just an extension of inflammation and can predispose to the formation of gum abscesses any time.