HOW TO TREAT A DENTAL ABCESS? Open up (incise) and drain the abscess. The dentist will make a small cut into the abscess, allowing the pus to drain out, and then wash the area with salt water (saline). ... Perform a root canal. This can help eliminate the infection and save your tooth. ... Pull the affected tooth. ... Prescribe antibiotics. How long does it take for an abscess to heal? about 1 to 2 weeks You may not need antibiotics to treat a simple abscess, unless the infection is spreading into the skin around the wound (cellulitis). The wound will take about 1 to 2 weeks to heal, depending on the size of the abscess.