17/10/2025
Dr. Wojciech Gącienica-Ciułacz

Pus after tooth extraction — how to treat empyema on the gum

Pus in the gum is an inflammation that can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort. Often appears after tooth extraction. A lot of people struggling with this problem are wondering what causes it, how to effectively deal with this condition and restore oral health. Gingivitis can result from various causes, such as lack of proper oral hygiene, periodontal disease, or bacterial infections. A proper treatment of suppurating gingivitis is crucial to maintaining healthy teeth and gums and preventing further complications such as the spread of infection or tooth loss.

Causes of pus formation in the gum

Pus in the gum can arise for various reasons, including:

  • Lack of proper oral hygiene Improper brushing and flossing leads to the accumulation of plaque and tartar, which increases the risk of bacterial infection and inflammation of the gums.
  • Infection before extraction If the tooth was infected before the extraction, the bacteria can spread to surrounding tissues after the procedure.
  • Periodontal diseases — such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, which lead to the formation of a space between the teeth and gums where pus can accumulate.
  • Improper extraction technique — tissue damage during tooth extraction can promote infection.
  • Damage to the gums Injuries, such as cuts, can lead to pus formation.
  • Delayed healing after dental procedures — Abnormal wound healing after extraction or root canal treatment can promote infection.
  • Contamination of the wound — there is a risk of bacterial infection during wound healing.
  • Foreign body — fragments of the tooth, root or bone left behind can cause the development of an abscess.
  • Improper post-extraction care Failing to follow the recommendations of the dentist, such as avoiding smoking, drinking through a straw or rinsing the mouth, increases the risk of infection.

If you suspect empyema after tooth extraction, contact your dentist to discuss symptoms and treatment. Early intervention prevents complications.

Is pus in the gum dangerous?

The accumulation of pus in the gum is usually the result of a bacterial infection that causes inflammation, pain, and swelling. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth and even to other parts of the body. Possible complications are:

  • Loss of teeth — the infection weakens the periodontal structures.
  • Meningitis, bone, sepsis — the infection can spread to the jaw bones, paranasal sinuses, and in extreme cases to the entire body.
  • Systemic problems — Pus in the gum may be associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes or respiratory disorders.

Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor or dentist immediately.

Pus in the gum and abscess

Pus in the gum and abscess are related, but different conditions:

  • Pus in the gum — inflammation caused by a bacterial infection, manifested by pain, swelling, redness and discharge of pus.
  • Abscess — local accumulation of pus in the tissue, surrounded by an inflammatory wall. In the mouth, it can occur as a gingival, periapical, pericoronary abscess or after tooth extraction.

Types of abscesses in the mouth

Gum abscess (periodontal)

It develops in the gum as a result of a bacterial infection, often associated with periodontal disease or injuries. Symptom inkluderer:

  • Pain and swelling of the gums
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods
  • Bleeding when brushing
  • Unpleasant smell from the mouth
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Fever and malaise

Treatment depends on the stage — from rinses and antibiotics to surgical intervention (incision of the abscess and cleansing).

Periapical abscess (periapical)

It is formed around the apex of the tooth root, usually as a result of advanced caries and infection of the pulp. Symptom:

  • Severe toothache radiating to the face or ear
  • Swelling and redness
  • Sensitivity to temperature
  • Difficulty opening the mouth and chewing
  • Unpleasant smell from the mouth
  • Fever and malaise

Dermankirin paqijkirina kanalên kokê (dermankirina kanala kokê), derxistina an birîn û avêtinê ye.

Pericoronary abscess (pericoronary)

It appears around the crown of the tooth, most often a partially ejected wisdom tooth. Symptom:

  • Pain and swelling around the tooth
  • Difficulty opening the mouth and chewing
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Sensitivity to temperature
  • Unpleasant smell from the mouth
  • Fever and malaise

Treatment includes cleaning the gum fold and, in more severe cases, incision of the abscess or removal of the tooth.

Abscess after tooth extraction (alveolar)

A. Symptom:

  • Pain at the extraction site
  • Swelling and redness
  • Sensitivity to temperature
  • Unpleasant smell from the mouth
  • Fever and malaise

Treatment is wound cleansing, mouth rinsing, antibiotics, and pain and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Will the abscess be absorbed by itself?

Ne sempre. Small and superficial abscesses can be absorbed if the body fights the infection on its own. However, in most cases, the abscess requires treatment because the infection can spread and cause serious complications, such as endocarditis or sepsis. Therefore, you should never underestimate the symptoms and always consult a doctor.

Abscess incision — quando è necessario?

An abscess incision is a procedure that involves opening an abscess and removing pus from it. A doctor or dental surgeon performs when other treatments are ineffective or the condition is very advanced.

Processus:

  1. Anesthesia — to avoid pain.
  2. Incision — making a cut in the area of the abscess.
  3. Removal of pus — cleansing of the abscess.
  4. Cleansing — removal of bacteria and pus residues.
  5. Buffered — in some cases, the placement of a tampon to aid healing.
  6. Complementary treatment — antibiotics, saline rinses.

After the procedure, it is important to follow the doctor's recommendations and take care of oral hygiene to avoid recurrence of infection.

If you have symptoms of an abscess after tooth extraction or other disturbing symptoms, do not delay the visit to the dentist. Early treatment is the key to health and avoiding serious complications.

Content author

Zdjęcie lekarza

Dr. Wojciech Gącienica-Ciułacz

Dentist/Dental implantologist

Dr. Wojciech Gącienica-Ciułacz is a dentist for whom dentistry is a true vocation. In his practice, he stands out for his extraordinary ability to listen carefully to patients, thanks to which he is able to precisely adjust the treatment plan to the individual needs and expectations of each person. His approach is based on the deep conviction that effective dental therapy must take into account not only the medical aspect, but also the comfort and well-being of the patient.

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