A periapical (per-e-AP-ih-kul) abscess occurs at the tip of the root, whereas a periodontal (per-e-o-DON-tul) abscess occurs in the gums at the side of a tooth root.

Where is the abscess located?

An abscess is a pocket of inflamed tissue filled with pus. Abscesses can form anywhere on the body (both inside and outside). They're most commonly found on the surface of the skin.

Can you get an abscess where there is no tooth?

There are two main types of gum abscess: gingival and periodontal. Gingival abscesses only occur in the gum tissue. They do not involve the teeth at all. They may occur if a sharp piece of food gets lodged directly into the gums and causes an infection.