Warning Signs Of A Tooth Abscess

Swollen Lymph Nodes

A tooth abscess often presents with swollen lymph nodes, usually the ones below the jaw or in the neck, typically accompanied by a sense of tenderness. The patient's jaw may look wider than usual, or their neck may look thicker. When individuals press on the area, there may be pain. Lymph nodes are located throughout the body, and while it's unusual for lymph nodes in other parts of the body to swell due to a tooth abscess, it's not unheard of. A swollen lymph node is often a sign patients should see a doctor to make sure they don't have a serious infection or underlying condition. Lymph nodes that have swollen due to infection are said to have lymphadenitis. The nodes help fight infections by filtering bacteria and viruses, entrapping them before they're able to infect the rest of the patient's body. With a tooth abscess, swelling in the jaw or neck indicates an individual's lymph nodes are working hard to keep the infection from moving to other parts of their body. Patients should see a doctor if they experience this.