An acute or chronic collection of pus at the tip (apex) of a tooth root, caused by a bacterial infection that has spread from the tooth pulp into the surrounding bone.

Why It Matters

This is a dental emergency. It causes severe throbbing pain, facial swelling, and can lead to systemic infection (sepsis) if the bacteria enter the bloodstream.

Clinical Details

• Treatment: Root Canal (to drain and clean) or Extraction (if the tooth is unsalvageable). Antibiotics alone do not cure it; the source must be removed.