Tooth Abscess or Infection? Seen Today in McGregor & Waco
A tooth abscess is an infection that can spread — it won't clear on its own. Dr. Maupin treats infections the same day to drain the pressure, stop the pain, and protect your health. Gentle care, sedation available.
- Same-day emergency appointments
- 4.9★ from 177 reviews
- Sedation & gentle care for anxious patients
- Most insurance accepted
How to tell it's an abscess
An abscess is a pocket of infection at the root of a tooth or in the gum. It needs a dentist — antibiotics alone don't fix the source. Watch for these signs, and call us promptly.
Throbbing pain
A deep, constant ache that can radiate to your jaw, ear, or neck — often worse when lying down.
Swollen gum or face
A tender bump on the gum, or swelling in the cheek or jaw. Sometimes a "pimple" that leaks.
Bad taste or odor
A sudden foul taste can mean the abscess is draining pus into your mouth.
Sensitivity to hot & pressure
Pain when you bite down or with hot food and drink, and a tooth that feels loose or raised.
Infection can spread
Left untreated, the infection can move into the jaw and surrounding tissue. Early care keeps it contained.
Fever or feeling unwell
Fever, swollen glands, or feeling generally sick mean the infection is active — don't wait it out.
When to go to the ER instead: severe facial swelling, swelling that spreads toward the eye or neck, a high fever, or any trouble breathing or swallowing are medical emergencies. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
What to do right now
- Rinse with warm salt water. Swish gently several times a day to ease pressure and keep the area clean.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Follow the label. Never place aspirin directly on the gum — it burns the tissue.
- Don't poke or squeeze a gum bump. It can push the infection deeper. Let us drain it safely.
- Keep your head elevated and stay hydrated. Lying flat can make throbbing worse; rest propped up.
- Call us — don't wait. An abscess won't heal on its own. The sooner we treat it, the safer and easier it is. (254) 848-2722

A surgeon's skill, a hometown calm
Dr. Paul Maupin focuses on surgical dentistry — extractions, root canals, and implants. He treats the infection at its source: draining the abscess, saving the tooth with a root canal where possible, or removing and replacing it when needed.
- 4,500+ dental implants placed — emergencies handled start to finish, no referral needed.
- Sedation and a gentle pace for nervous or in-pain patients.
- Honest, up-front pricing and most insurance accepted.
Relief in three steps
Call
Tell us your symptoms. We'll find you a same-day slot.
Come in
We diagnose with a quick digital X-ray, locate the infection, and explain your options.
Get relief
We drain the pressure and treat the source that day, with a plan to keep it from coming back.
4.9 stars · 177 reviews
"My face was swollen and I was scared. They got me in same day, drained the infection, and the relief was immediate."
"I was terrified and in pain. Dr. Maupin walked me through every step and the sedation made it easy."
"Honest about what it would cost and what my insurance covered. Took the infection seriously. Highly recommend."
Tooth abscess questions
How fast can I be seen?
Call us and we'll do everything we can to see you the same day during office hours (Mon–Thu, 8am–4pm). A dental infection is treated as urgent.
Can't I just take antibiotics?
Antibiotics can calm an infection temporarily, but they don't remove its source. The abscess comes back until the tooth is treated or removed. We address the root of the problem.
When is it an emergency-room situation?
If you have severe facial swelling, swelling spreading toward your eye or neck, a high fever, or any trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to the nearest ER. Those are signs the infection may be spreading dangerously.
Will treatment hurt?
We numb the area fully before anything, and oral sedation is available if you're anxious. Most patients feel relief as soon as the pressure is drained.
What will it cost?
It depends on the treatment, and we'll give you an honest estimate before we start. We accept most major insurance and offer financing.
Right here in McGregor
- Address
- 27487 Highway 84, McGregor, TX 76657
- Phone
- (254) 848-2722
- Hours
- Mon–Thu 8am–4pm · Fri by appointment
Infection? Don't wait it out.
A tooth abscess only spreads. Call now and we'll get you seen today.
Call (254) 848-2722Open Mon–Thu, 8am–4pm · 27487 Highway 84, McGregor, TX