What is a common sign of a dental abscess?

A dental abscess is a localized collection of pus that can form within the tissues of the teeth or gums, usually due to infection. A common sign of a dental abscess is swelling and pain in the affected area. The presence of swelling indicates that the body is responding to an infection, and pain is typically associated with the inflammation and pressure from the pus accumulating in the tissues. This pain can be sharp, throbbing, or persistent, and the swelling may be visibly noticeable, affecting the surrounding area, including the gums and possibly the jaw.

While bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, and bad breath may also indicate various dental issues or conditions, they are not specific indicators of a dental abscess. Bleeding gums often relate to gum disease or trauma, tooth sensitivity can result from several factors including enamel wear or cavities, and bad breath may be due to poor oral hygiene or other oral health conditions. Therefore, the combination of swelling and pain is more definitive for diagnosing a dental abscess.