Tablets for tooth abscess
Pain tablets may control symptoms and prescribed antibiotics may help spreading infection, but an abscess usually needs dental treatment.
The short answer
An abscess is a collection of pus from infection in or around a tooth. Medicine alone does not reliably remove infected pulp or drain the source.
Why should you avoid squeezing an abscess?
Do not squeeze the swelling or put tablets on the gum. Use only suitable medicine as directed and arrange urgent dental assessment.
When does an abscess require urgent care?
Facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or swelling toward the eye or neck requires urgent care.
What treatment might the dentist recommend?
Ask whether drainage, root canal treatment, extraction, or medication is indicated.
Frequently asked questions
What is a tooth abscess and what does it contain?
An abscess is a collection of pus from infection in or around a tooth. Medicine alone does not reliably remove infected pulp or drain the source.
When should I arrange an examination?
Ask whether drainage, root canal treatment, extraction, or medication is indicated.
Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.