Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Questions Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

How do you pop a gum abscess?

I am a 23 year old female and I have a gum abscess. How do you pop a gum abscess?

10 Answers

Go to a dentist to evaluate/treat the cause.
Hello,

Popping a gum abscess is no different than a regular abscess. First thing to do is to determine whether the abscess is just a gum abscess or an abscess associated with a tooth. When a tooth gets an abscess it usually tries to push its way out through the gums (this is the path of least resistance). If this is the case, the abscess will usually pop and drain on its own. Unfortunately, it usually takes a dental X-ray (radiograph) to rule out a tooth abscess. If it is a tooth abscess, popping the bubble on the gums will only establish drainage to relieve the discomfort. Eventually, the gums will heal and the discomfort will start again. Whatever is used to pop an abscess should be sterile and careful knowledge about the surrounding anatomy is important.
Hope this helps.

My best to you!

William F. Scott IV, DMD
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See a dentist
You don't/should not pop an abscess, you should call your dentist and be seen as soon as possible. You will needs an X-ray, a clinical examination to find out the cause of the abscess first, and most probably be prescribed an antibiotics first and then be treated as necessary.
You have an infection. The abscess can be from the tooth or from the gum tissues. Usually, the "sinus tract" will pop on it's once the fluid pressure exceeds the tissue tolerance. You should contact a dentist. During this Covid-19 Pandemic many offices are doing virtual visits. Antibiotics are likely needed. You could try warm saltwater rinses ( 8 oz. of warm water & a small amount of salt) rinse for 30 seconds and spit that out. Try multiple times per day. Take Ibuprofen if you are able to take that type of medication.
Good rule of thumb is to avoid self diagnosis. You would need to have your Dentist determine if there is an active periodontal infection (gum tissue) or if this is originating from a tooth (dental abscess).
My recommendation would be to rinse with warm salt water. If the area is fluctuant (soft) you could apply gentle pressure to see if it drains. Continue to do warm salt water rinses multiple times a day and contact your local dentist.
I would try some warm salt water rinses and get in an antibiotic ASAP until you see a dentist
Gum abscess is a manifestation of an underling disease like tooth necrosis or periodontal disease that requires differential diagnosis and treatment, supported with antibiotics. I strongly recommend to see a dental professional for proper treatment.

Monika Tyszkowski, DDS
This is not recommended. A dentist uses sterile instruments and popping an abcess may cause more bacteria to be introduced to the area. See your provider as soon as you can. If the abcess pops on its own try warm salt water rinsing and see your provider right away.