<s>[INST] dental x-ray showed abscess or possible abscess in lower right tooth - but there is no pain - and muscle strength test of tooth showed it to be normal. Dentist decided to wait - didn't want to do root canal until sure it was an abscess. Can x-ray be misleading about abscess? [/INST] Thanks for your query, I have gone through your query.The abscess could be because of the tooth infection or the gum infection. Consult a oral physician and get the complete examination done to rule out these two conditions.You can take a course of antibiotics like amoxicillin 500mg and metronidazole 400mg tid for 5 days (if you are not allergic). After taking antibiotics you can get the tooth treated with RCT(if bone support is fine) for tooth infection.if it is gum infection then get your teeth cleaned once and maintain the oral hygiene. If needed grafts can be placed to make the tooth firm. I hope my answer will help you, take care. </s>