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My dog has a cheek abscess. Can I wait for the vet? What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 7 months and 11 days old | 75 lbs

My dog may have an abscess on her cheek. The vet can't see her until Saturday. The emergency pet care facility is not within my driving vicinity. Will she be okay until Saturday or is it life threatening? If she can wait, what can I do to easy'm ease her days? Though she shows no sign of discomfort I doggie she must some.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 12th, 2017

Hello. I am sorry for your concerns about Freyja. It does look like she has a tooth root abscess, most likely involving the 4th upper premolar. Antibiotics usually clears the infection very nicely, but often the tooth needs to be removed. As long as Freyja is eating well & is in no significant discomfort, you can wait to have her seen. Placing a warm compress over the area should help with drainage. I would do this for 10 minutes 2-3 times a day. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Maria DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It looks like Freyja Luna may have a tooth root abscess. They can get swelling on the side of their face and it can actually abscess on the outside of their mouths. I would call your veterinarian and see if they can get you in any sooner then Saturday. Freyja Luna needs antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. Most likely will also need to be scheduled for a dental if it is definitively a tooth root abscess. There are multiple veterinarians in the area where your zip code is so if your veterinarian cannot get you in you can try calling others. Here is a list of veterinarians in your area: http://www.vetstreet.com/find-a-veterinarian-animal-hospital/utah/west-jordan Thank you for using PetCoach.

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