Abscesses are infections that occur around the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. They are a serious condition that can damage tissue and surrounding teeth, with the infection possibly spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Because of the serious oral health and general health problems that can result from and abscess, see your dentist as soon as possible if you discover a pimple-like swelling on your gum that usually is painful. In the meantime, to ease the pain and draw the pus towards the surface, try rinsing your mouth with a mild salt water solution (1/2 teaspoon of table salt in one cup of water) several times a day.
