How is a dental abscess treated?

A dental abscess is treated by draining the pus and eliminating the infection. The dentist may make a small incision in the abscess to allow the pus to drain or perform a root canal to remove the infected pulp and clean the inside of the tooth. In some cases, the affected tooth may need to be extracted. Antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear the infection, especially if it has spread beyond the abscessed area. Pain relievers may also be recommended to manage discomfort.