I have a tooth that is chipped and now has an abscess. how dire is this? do i need to go to the er to get iv antibiotics or can i wait to see a dentist?

Depends: This is an urgent situation. If you have any swelling or severe pain, you should see a doc to give you antibiotics to help until you see the dentist. If you are not particularly uncomfortable, just see your dentis asap.

Tooth abscess: It's not usually urgent enough to go to the er unless you are having increased swelling in your face. I would call your dentist and make an appointment for as soon as possible.

See your dentist: A dental infection can be very serious. Call your dentist and make an appointment today. The er can give you antibiotics but they are not equipped to solve your problem.

Don't wait: Before the advent of antibiotics, abscessed upper front teeth were one of the leading causes of death. Antibiotics will lessen the severity if the infection, but only your dentist can treat the problem and keep it from recurring.