Will a Dentist Pull an Infected Tooth Same Day?

Have you ever found yourself in the throes of a toothache, wondering if immediate relief is possible? If so, you're not alone. Many individuals grapple with the question: will a dentist pull an infected tooth the same day? The answer can depend on several factors, but in many cases, immediate extraction is indeed possible. 

Understanding Tooth Infections

Tooth infections, also known as abscesses, are serious dental conditions that can cause severe pain, swelling, and even systemic illness if not treated promptly. They occur when bacteria invade the dental pulp, the innermost part of the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves.

Causes: Tooth infections can be caused by severe tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or gum disease.

Symptoms: Symptoms of a tooth infection may include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a foul taste in the mouth.

The Extraction Process

The extraction of an infected tooth is a common dental procedure. However, the complexity of the extraction can vary depending on the condition of the tooth and the patient's overall health.

• Simple Extraction: In some cases, the dentist can perform a simple extraction, where the tooth is loosened with an instrument called an elevator and then removed with dental forceps.
• Surgical Extraction: In more complicated cases, a surgical extraction may be necessary. This involves making a small incision into the gum to remove the tooth.

When Immediate Extraction is Possible

There are situations where a dentist can pull an infected tooth on the same day. This usually happens when the infection is localized to the tooth and has not spread to the surrounding tissues.

• Localized Infection: If the infection is confined to the tooth and immediate extraction can prevent it from spreading, a dentist may opt to remove the tooth on the same day.
• Patient's Health: The patient's overall health and medical history also play a role. If the patient is healthy and has no contraindications to extraction, immediate removal may be possible.

When Immediate Extraction is Not Possible

While immediate extraction is often possible, there are circumstances where it may not be the best course of action.

• Severe Infection: If the infection is severe and has spread to surrounding tissues, the dentist may need to prescribe antibiotics to control the infection before extraction.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions or medications may increase the risk of complications during extraction, necessitating a more cautious approach.

Seeking Dental Care in Charlotte, NC

If you're dealing with a painful tooth infection and are in need of immediate care, don't hesitate to reach out. At Black Dog Dental Studio, Dr. Koneru is committed to providing prompt, compassionate care to alleviate your discomfort and protect your oral health. Call us today at (704) 703-3393 to request an appointment.