An infected tooth may need to be pulled when it is damaged beyond repair, the infection is severe, or if it poses a risk to surrounding teeth and oral health. If root canal treatment or antibiotics cannot resolve the infection, extraction becomes necessary to prevent the spread of bacteria to the jaw, bloodstream, or other parts of the body. Contact Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants for prompt treatment if you suspect a tooth infection.
If you need a tooth extracted, our team will ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure and provide beautiful and durable replacement tooth implants to restore your smile!
Understanding Tooth Infection
Bacteria from plaque buildup can enter the pulp within a tooth through a crack, chip, cavity, or other damage. This pulp contains blood vessels and nerves that become inflamed and infected as the bacteria invade the area.
As bacteria multiply and the infection worsens, pus pockets (abscesses) can form in or around the tooth. Although pain and infection are typically localized to the affected tooth, as noted above, there is a risk of infection spreading to other parts of the body. This is why it’s essential to seek treatment as quickly as possible.
Signs of Infection
During your oral surgery consultation, our dental experts look for possible symptoms of an infected or abscessed tooth to determine if extraction is necessary. These include the following:
- Fever
- Severe toothache
- Tooth discoloration
- Pain or difficulty chewing
- Root damage that is visible in X-rays
- Jaw, facial, or neck swelling near the affected tooth
- Tooth sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking hot or cold things
- Discharge from the site of the affected tooth
Remember that dental problems can have many causes; these symptoms do not always mean your tooth is infected.
How We Determine if Extraction is Needed
Treatment for an infected tooth depends on the location of the abscess and the severity of the infection. Our caring surgeons make every effort to save your natural tooth. But if it cannot be repaired, extraction is vital to protect your health by stopping the spread of infection. It also alleviates pain and discomfort.
If you are visiting our team at Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, it’s likely because your tooth infection has progressed to the point that extraction is needed. We recommend this procedure if the tooth is infected beyond repair and cannot be effectively treated with other methods, such as antibiotics. If the same tooth is prone to recurrent infections, an extraction and dental restoration can save you multiple trips to the dentist.
Restoring a Tooth After Extraction
If the infected tooth becomes unstable because the damage has spread to the gum tissue and bone, extraction and replacement tooth implants can restore the function and appearance of the original tooth.
Today’s dental implants to replace missing or damaged teeth are more natural and comfortable. From single implants to multiple tooth replacements and removable dentures, we provide a wide range of dental implants to meet your needs. If you are anxious about surgery, we are here to help.
Everyone at Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, from our surgeons to our surgical assistants and support staff, takes steps to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. We offer several sedation options to meet every patient’s needs and preferences.
Same-Day Extractions May Be Available: Call for an Appointment
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, don’t wait. Tooth extraction may be the best solution to relieve your symptoms and prevent future complications. Our board-certified oral surgeons can help you feel better quickly, and same-day appointments may be available at a location near you.
Contact us today for dental services and take the first step toward a beautiful, pain-free smile! We have offices throughout Bucks County, Pennsylvania, to assist you.