An abscess is an inflamed, infected nodule filled with pus. Common to the skin or mouth, an abscess can be a quite painful condition. Treatment is dependent on the abscess' location and severity. If left untreated, an infected mass can rupture, allowing the infection to spread.

Often initially seen as a raised, hard nodule, an abscess is diagnosed with a visual examination. To confirm the nodule is abscessed, a needle biopsy may be performed to obtain a sample of the inner fluid. Depending on the location and size of the mass, additional testing, including imaging tests, may be conducted to discount other conditions. Oral abscesses can necessitate laboratory testing and X-rays to determine an appropriate treatment.

Although an infected mass may form anywhere in the body, most occur either just beneath the surface of the skin or within the mouth. Initiated by the introduction of foreign matter, such as a sliver of glass, or a localized infection, the body’s inflammatory response can contribute to an abscess' formation. The area becomes irritated, raised, and adopts a reddish hue.

Individuals with an abscessed nodule initially notice tenderness in the affected area. As with most inflammatory conditions, abscessed tissue puts off heat so it is not uncommon for the tissue to feel warm to the touch. If the nodule is in one’s mouth, he or she may experience sensitivity to extreme temperatures and facial swelling. As the infected mass matures and the infection moves toward the skin’s surface, it comes to a head like a pimple. If the infection burrows downward into the tissue, additional symptoms, including fever, malaise, and complication may occur.

Home remedies are usually the first approach to treatment, especially if one has had an abscess before and recognizes the signs. Applying a warm compress several times a day for several days usually draws the infection to the surface. With time, the infected nodule will usually come to a head and outwardly rupture.

If the infected nodule grows larger without rupturing or symptoms worsen, medical treatment should be sought. Puncturing an abscess on one’s own, such as with a needle, or otherwise squeezing it is never recommended due to the risk for serious complications, including injury to the tissue and increased infection. Usually, lancing by a qualified health care provider is the primary approach for draining and removing the abscessed tissue.

Regardless of the location of the abscessed tissue, antibiotics are often prescribed to control the infection. Lancing is generally performed in a physician’s office with the administration of a local anesthetic. Using a scalpel, the physician takes off the topmost layer of the abscessed tissue or makes a single incision in the nodule so the infection may drain. Usually, the person may only feel slight pressure during the procedure. If the abscessed tissue is in one’s mouth, such as a dental abscess, and the infection is significant, affected teeth may need to be extracted.