🔍 What Is a Tooth‑Root Abscess?

A tooth‑root abscess (dental abscess) is a painful bacterial infection around the root of a broken or diseased tooth. It creates a pocket of pus that can damage bone and soft tissue, often swelling under the eye or jaw :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

⚠️ Causes & Risk Factors

• Fractured tooth exposing the pulp or dentin; enamel in cats is just 0.1–0.3 mm thick :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Severe periodontal (gum) disease can allow bacteria to penetrate the root :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Upper fourth premolars and canines are most commonly affected :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

🚩 Signs & Symptoms

• Facial swelling—especially under eye or along jaw :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Pawing at mouth, difficulty chewing, dropping food :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Prefers soft food, halitosis (bad breath), drooling :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Red, swollen gums; possible pus draining :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Lethargy, decreased appetite, systemic illness in severe cases :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

🔬 Diagnosis: What the Vet Will Do

• Oral exam: Identify fractures, swelling or draining tracts; sedation often required :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Dental X‑rays: Essential for visualizing infected roots and bone loss :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Fine‑needle aspiration (FNA): Confirms presence of pus, rules out other causes :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Blood tests: Pre-anesthetic screening and assessment of systemic infection risk

🛠️ Treatment Options

A. Tooth Extraction (Most Common)

• Removal of infected tooth and root under general anesthesia :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
• Surgical cleaning of infection; antibiotics & pain relief prescribed :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Excellent prognosis; most cats live comfortably without adverse effects

B. Root Canal Therapy

• Specialist procedure preserving the tooth crown when possible :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Requires follow‑up X‑rays at 3–6 months and annually
• Higher cost and specialist referral may be needed

C. Supportive Medical Care

• Antibiotics: Typically amoxicillin/clavulanate or clindamycin, guided by culture if needed :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Pain medication: NSAIDs or opioids to manage discomfort
• Flush and drain: If abscess open on skin, may require cleaning under sedation

📅 Recovery & Aftercare

• Soft food for 1–2 weeks post-op; monitor healing site
• Monitor swelling, appetite, and signs of infection
• Continue antibiotics until course is finished
• Regular rechecks, especially after root canal—ensure resolution
• Use an E‑collar to prevent pawing or licking treatment area
• Calm, cozy environment with support from Woopf & Purrz
• Track recovery via the Ask A Vet app—24/7 peace of mind

⚖️ Prognosis & Prevention

• Prognosis is excellent with prompt treatment—most cats recover fully :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• Prevention: regular dental exams & cleanings every 6–12 months :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Home dental care: daily brushing, VOHC-recommended products :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Avoid hard chews like bones, antlers; indoor cats have lower risk

📝 Reference Table