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Do Infected Teeth Always Need to Be Extracted? Emergency Dentist in Surrey Answers

When it comes to dental emergencies, an infected tooth can be painful. But are all infected teeth really lost causes? 

At Clover Park Dental, our emergency dentist in Surrey is here to dispel the myth that pulling teeth is the only option once infection sets in. Explore your choices, how to recognize signs of an infection, and how you can work to avoid needing an extraction. 

How Do You Know a Tooth Is Infected? 

A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, occurs when bacteria invade the dental pulp—the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. This can happen due to untreated cavities, gum disease, or trauma to the tooth. 

Symptoms of an infected tooth include: 

  • Persistent Toothache
  • Temperature Sensitivity
  • Face or Cheek Swelling
  • Tender, Swollen Lymph Nodes 
  • Fever
  • Bad Breath or Taste 

Do All Infected Teeth Need to Be Extracted?

The short answer is no, not all infected teeth need to be extracted. The decision depends on several factors, including the severity of the infection, the condition of the tooth, and your overall dental health.

What Are the Treatment Options for an Infected Tooth?

  • Antibiotics: In some cases, antibiotics can help reduce the infection and swelling, providing temporary relief. However, antibiotics alone don’t address the root cause.
  • Root Canal Treatment: A root canal removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. This can save the tooth from extraction.
  • Tooth Extraction: If the infection is severe and the tooth cannot be saved, a dental extraction may be necessary as a last resort when other treatments aren’t effective.

When Is an Infected Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Extensive Decay

If the tooth is too decayed and damaged beyond repair, in addition to having an infection, an extraction may be the option for your smile. A severely decayed tooth cannot support a filling or dental crown, making extraction necessary.

Failed Root Canal

In some cases, a root canal treatment may fail, leaving you with a continuing infection. When this happens, and the tooth continues to cause problems, extraction might be the only solution.

Risk of Spreading Infection

If the infection poses a risk of spreading to other parts of your body, such as your jawbone or bloodstream, our emergency dentist in Surrey may decide that you need an immediate extraction to prevent serious health complications.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

A dental extraction is a common procedure and is usually straightforward, although Clover Park Dental is equipped to deal with even complex extractions. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Preparation: Our dentist will take X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding bone. We use a local anesthetic to numb the area. We also offer dental sedation.
  • Extraction: We’ll gently loosen the tooth using dental instruments and remove it. You might feel some pressure.
  • Aftercare: After the extraction, our team will provide instructions for care, such as avoiding hard foods, not smoking, and keeping the area clean. 

Preventing Tooth Infections

Prevention is always better than a cure. After all, we’d much rather you not have to visit our emergency dentist in Surrey with signs of a tooth infection. To reduce that risk, maintain good oral hygiene. Here are some tips:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth.
  • Visit our dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
  • Avoid sugary foods and drinks that can lead to cavities.
  • Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports to prevent trauma to your teeth.

Don’t Wait Until You Need an Infected Tooth Extraction

Not all infected teeth need to be extracted. With timely treatment from our emergency dentist in Surrey, many teeth can be saved with antibiotics or a root canal. However, in cases of severe infection or damage, extraction might be necessary to protect your oral and overall health.

No matter which path back to oral health is the right one for you, the team at Clover Park Dental is here to guide you to the end. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a tooth infection, don’t wait. Contact us now for same-day care: 604-372-1011.