Our Vets are Available 🟢
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.
Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial Guidelines
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
Resources
Lorem ipsum dolor
PricingHow it WorksContact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Dog w/Tooth Root Abscess - what to do while waiting for appt?

I'm feeling really anxious and could use some advice. My sweet boy, Max, has developed what I believe is a tooth root abscess. His face has started to swell on one side, and he seems to be in discomfort—he’s been whining a bit and isn’t as interested in his food or favorite chew toys. I managed to get him a vet appointment, but it’s not until the end of the week, and I feel so helpless watching him like this. He’s still drinking water, but his energy is definitely down, and seeing him in pain just breaks my heart. Does anyone have any tips or home remedies to help keep him comfortable while we wait? I’ve heard mixed things about using a warm compress, and I’m not sure if it’s safe to give him anything for the pain. I’m just really worried and want to make sure I’m doing all I can for him. Thanks in advance for any advice—I really appreciate it!

Answer:

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear your furry friend is dealing with a tooth root abscess. These can be quite uncomfortable for dogs, so let's go over what you can do to help in the meantime.



A tooth root abscess is typically an infection that can develop when bacteria enter the root canal due to dental disease, a fractured tooth, or gum injuries. You might notice swelling around the jaw or under the eye, drooling, difficulty eating, or just general discomfort in your dog.



While you're waiting for your appointment, you can help ease your pup's discomfort by offering softer foods that are easier to eat and trying to keep your dog's mouth clean without causing too much disturbance. You can gently wipe the area around the mouth with a damp cloth if necessary. Also, be aware of any signs of worsening symptoms like facial swelling or your dog avoiding eating altogether, as these could indicate a need for immediate veterinary attention.



At home, make sure your dog is in a calm and comfortable environment. Keep an eye out for any signs of pain, such as whining, pawing at the mouth, or changes in behavior. These can be worth mentioning during your consult.



Why not book a video consult with us on Dial A Vet? We can explore options to ease your pup's discomfort and discuss the best next steps together.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 19, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Idiopathic chylothorax, fluid every 2-3 days. How many chest taps?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sudden concerning symptoms in dog w/ CHF starting furosemide
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cats & steroids (the M E O W edition)
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cat in her last 24 hours of life - ok to stop some meds?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links