Tooth Abscess and Infection Treatment in Fairfax, VA

Dental Infections Get Worse, Not Better. Come In Today.

Infections Don't Heal On Their Own

A tooth abscess is a pocket of infection that forms either at the root of the tooth or in the gum next to it. It usually starts from a cavity that reached the nerve, a cracked tooth that let bacteria in, or gum disease that progressed too far. Once it's there, it doesn't resolve on its own. The pressure builds, the pain gets worse, and the infection can spread into surrounding bone and tissue. This is the dental emergency you can't ignore.

Signs You Can't Ignore

Severe, throbbing tooth pain that doesn't let up. Swelling in your face, jaw, or neck. A bad taste or pus near a tooth. Fever or feeling generally unwell. Pain when you bite down or touch the tooth. A pimple-like bump on the gum that drains. Any of these need same-day treatment. If you're having trouble breathing or swallowing, that's an ER situation, but for facial swelling and severe pain without breathing problems, a dental office is where you actually get fixed.

Drain. Treat The Source. All Today.

We start with an emergency exam, X-rays, and often a CT scan so we can see the full extent of the infection. Treatment usually involves draining the abscess to relieve pressure (immediate relief), antibiotics to control the infection, and addressing the source of the problem: a root canal to save the tooth, or an extraction if the tooth can't be saved. All of this happens here, same-day, no referrals.

What does a tooth abscess feel like?

Most patients describe severe, throbbing pain that's hard to ignore and gets worse with pressure or chewing. You may notice swelling in your face or jaw, a bad taste in your mouth, sensitivity to hot or cold, fever, or generally feeling unwell. Sometimes there's a visible bump on the gum near the tooth that drains. If you have any of these signs, call us same-day.

How much does abscess and infection treatment cost in Fairfax?

The emergency exam with X-rays is $250. Treatment cost depends on what's needed. A drainage-only visit will cost about $470.  A root canal to save the tooth starts at $1,447, often paired with a same-day CEREC crown at $1,658. An extraction starts at $390. Antibiotics may be prescribed and are filled at your pharmacy.

Will I need antibiotics?

Often, yes, but antibiotics alone don't cure a tooth abscess. They control the infection and reduce swelling while we treat the cause. The actual fix is either a root canal to remove the infected tissue inside the tooth, or an extraction if the tooth can't be saved. Antibiotics buy time and reduce risk but they don't replace treatment.

What if I'm pregnant or have a medical condition?

Tell us when you call. We treat patients across the full range of medical conditions and pregnancies, and we'll adjust antibiotics and anesthetic choices accordingly. Untreated dental infections during pregnancy carry real risk, so don't put it off. We're careful with what we prescribe and we'll coordinate with your physician or OB if needed.