As you bite down to chew your dinner, a shooting sensation spikes through one of your back teeth. This agonizing pain dwindles to a persistent, throbbing as you stop mid-chew. If you also have a fever, swollen gums, bad breath, or difficulty swallowing alongside the pain, then you likely have a tooth infection. Also known as a dental abscess, a tooth infection occurs when bacteria in your mouth invades the soft tissue or a tooth - usually through tooth decay or tooth injuries (deep cracks or chips), resulting in an accumulation of pus. If you think you have a tooth infection, schedule an appointment ASAP with one of our dentists, as we can provide timely treatment via the best antibiotic for tooth infection, and stop it from spreading and causing serious complications. Click the Learn More to continue reading!