Abscess Drainage vs. Root Canal: Which Is Best?
Mar 14, 2025
HEALTH,INSIGHTSDealing with a tooth abscess can be painful and stressful. But the big question is: Should you go for abscess drainage or a root canal? Both treatments address infected teeth, but they work in different ways. In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you—step by step.

Choosing between these two procedures depends on your dental condition. One option provides immediate relief by draining the infection, but it doesn’t save the tooth. The other removes the infection while preserving your tooth for long-term health. If you’re unsure, consulting a dentist can help you decide the best option for your situation.
Causes and Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess
It is an infection caused by bacteria. It happens when bacteria enter a tooth through a cavity, crack, or gum disease. If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to severe pain and complications.
Common Symptoms:
- Severe toothache (constant throbbing pain)
- Swelling in the gums or face
- Foul taste in the mouth
- Fever and general discomfort
- Pus or discharge near the affected tooth
- Pain when chewing
Risks of an Untreated Abscess
Ignoring an abscess is dangerous. The infection can spread to your jaw, sinuses, or even your bloodstream. This can cause serious health problems, including sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition. That’s why timely treatment is crucial.
What is Abscess Drainage?
It is a simple procedure where a dentist or oral surgeon makes a small cut in the swollen gum to release the infected pus. This provides immediate relief and helps the area heal.
What to Expect After Abscess Drainage?
- Swelling and discomfort for a few days
- Possible bleeding in the first 24 hours
- Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent further infection
- Saltwater rinses can help with healing
- Pain relief medications may be recommended
How Long Does an Abscess Take to Heal After Drainage?
Most abscesses heal within 5 to 10 days after drainage. Proper oral hygiene and follow-up care are essential to prevent reinfection.
How Much Does Abscess Drainage Cost?
Prices vary by country, but here are some approximate costs:
Find the best dental treatment on Wupdoc! Compare prices, get offers, and connect with top doctors and clinics worldwide for the perfect care you deserve.
What is a Root Canal?
It is a procedure that removes the infected pulp inside a tooth, cleans the area, and seals it to prevent further infection. Unlike abscess drainage, it saves the tooth instead of just draining the pus.
How This Procedure Treats an Abscess
- The dentist removes the infected pulp.
- The root canals are cleaned and disinfected.
- The tooth is sealed and restored with a filling or crown.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Some cases may require two sessions.
Root Canal Cost
Here’s what you can expect to pay for this dental procedure in different countries:
- Turkey: €150 - €400
- Spain: €250 - €700
- Germany: €500 - €1,200
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
No! Thanks to modern anesthesia, this procedure is painless. You might feel discomfort after the procedure, but it’s much less painful than an untreated abscess.
Abscess Drainage vs. Root Canal: Key Differences
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
Feature | Abscess Drainage | Root Canal |
Pain Relief | Immediate | After the procedure |
Tooth Preservation | No (tooth may still need removal) | Yes (tooth is saved) |
Procedure Time | 15-30 minutes | 1-2 hours |
Healing Time | 5-10 days | Few days to weeks |
Cost | Lower | Higher |
Best For | Immediate pain relief | Long-term tooth preservation |
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Choosing between 2 dental procedures depends on your situation. If you want to save your tooth, a root canal is the best option. But if the infection is severe, immediate drainage may be necessary.
Get Offers from Multiple Doctors with Wupdoc
If you’re unsure about the best treatment, you can get multiple price quotes from doctors worldwide on Wupdoc. Here’s how it works:
- Create a treatment request.
- Receive free offers from top-rated clinics.
- Compare prices and treatment details.
- Choose the best option—only clinics you approve will contact you!
This ensures privacy and helps you find the best treatment at the right price.
Take Action Now!
If you have a tooth abscess, don’t wait! Choose the right treatment and get personalized offers from trusted doctors on Wupdoc today. Compare options, save money, and take control of your dental health. Start your journey to a pain-free smile now!
top 5 doctors & clinics in Abscess Drainage:
- 0.0Mexico, Mexicali
Dentistry
Rose Dental Studio was founded as a heartfelt tribute to Rosa, the mother of Dr. Fernanda, and is built on the family values of charisma, authenticity, and kindness. Every day, we aspire to reflect these principles in the care we provide. Located in a welcoming environment, Rose Dental Studio offers a full range of advanced dental services, including dental implants, veneers, dental crowns, teeth whitening, dentures, and complete smile makeovers. Our experienced team combines personalized care with the latest technology to deliver outstanding results. Trust Rose Dental Studio to help you achieve a radiant, healthy smile with compassion and excellence.
# 1
- 0.0Thailand, Pattaya City
Dentistry
Central Pattaya Dental Clinic is a trusted international dental clinic located in Pattaya, Thailand, offering high-quality cosmetic and restorative dental treatments at affordable prices. Our team of certified cosmetic dentists is dedicated to delivering exceptional care using advanced techniques and materials. We provide a full range of services including teeth whitening, dental implants, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, inlays and onlays, dental bridges, dentures, and dental fillings. Whether you're a local resident or a dental tourist, Central Pattaya Dental Clinic is the ideal destination for achieving a healthy, beautiful smile in a comfortable and professional environment. Quality care and stunning results await you here.
# 2
- 0.0Egypt, Cairo
Dentistry
Shiny White Dental Centers, established in 2009, has grown from a single clinic to eight premier locations, offering world-class dental care. Our comprehensive services include cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, scaling, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, root canal therapy, periodontal treatments, maxillofacial surgery, veneers, Hollywood Smile, and dental abscess drainage. With a patient-centered approach, state-of-the-art technology, and highly skilled professionals, Shiny White Dental Centers ensures personalized treatments and outstanding results. We are dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles with care, precision, and excellence, making us a trusted name in advanced dental solutions.
# 3
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Table of Contents
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INSIGHTS,HEALTHRoot Canal Before and After: How It Saves Your Tooth
Root canal before and after treatment demonstrates how a painful, damaged tooth can be saved, providing lasting relief and restoring your dental health. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what happens before and after a root canal, how the procedure works, how long it takes, and the potential cost. Let’s explore how root canal treatment can bring you the relief you need.
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