Gum swollen with pus
Pus from a swollen gum can signal a dental abscess or gum infection that needs prompt examination and treatment.
The short answer
Pus from a swollen gum can signal a dental abscess or gum infection that needs prompt examination and treatment. Do not squeeze the swelling or place aspirin directly on the gum.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Pus is a collection of inflammatory fluid, bacteria, and damaged cells. It may come from an infected tooth pulp through the root tip, a periodontal pocket beside the tooth, or an infection around a partially erupted tooth.
What can you do next?
Arrange a prompt dental examination. A dentist may inspect the gum and tooth, gently assess the pocket, test pulp response, and take a dental radiograph before choosing drainage, cleaning, root canal treatment, extraction, or antibiotics when clinically indicated.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek urgent care if swelling is spreading, pain is severe, fever is present, or you have difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing, or breathing. These symptoms can indicate infection extending beyond the original tooth or gum area.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the source is the tooth pulp, gum pocket, or an erupting tooth, whether imaging is needed, and which treatment will remove the source of infection rather than only relieve pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Can a gum abscess disappear on its own?
The swelling may drain and become smaller while the infection source remains, so an examination is still needed.
Will antibiotics fix the problem?
Antibiotics may be used when infection is spreading or systemic symptoms are present, but dental treatment is usually needed to address the source.