Can a Dentist Pull an Infected Tooth?

There is a very common belief that once a tooth has become infected that it can no longer be removed. But that’s not the case at all. Infected teeth can be removed, but it’s the only option on the table.

Let’s take a look at this point in great detail by looking at what is an infected tooth, what causes it, its distinct symptoms and other possible options to treat it.

Your Guide to Infected Teeth & Removal

What is an Infected Tooth?

An infected tooth is also known as an abscessed tooth or dental abscess. Healthline defines this condition as “a pocket of pus that can form in different parts of a tooth as a result of a bacterial infection.”

There are three types of tooth infections:

1. Periapical (which is when there is an infection in the root of the tooth)
2. Periodontal (where there is an infection of the gum next to the root of the tooth)
3. Gingival (an infection of the gum)

Healthline also notes that if “left untreated, an abscessed tooth can turn into a serious, life-threatening condition” due to the infection spreading to other parts of the body.

What Causes an Infected Tooth?

The long and short of it is that infected teeth are caused by bacteria. Whether it’s entering through a cavity (periapical), or lodged into the gums, the bacteria spreads around the area, causing an infection.

You’ll notice when you have a possible infection due to the symptoms. However, due to the similarities to other dental issues, such as cavity or sensitivity. The key symptoms that you there is an infection include:

• Gradually worsening pain
• Can’t put pressure or bite on the tooth
• Swollen gums
• Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold
• Bad breath and a foul taste in the mouth
• Pus coming out on squeezing the affected area

However, as mentioned, you’ll have to get your teeth inspected beforehand to determine if it’s an infection or another dental issue. They will most likely take several dental x-rays to survey the tooth and the surrounding area.

What Options are Available to Treat It?

Before removing the tooth, your dentist will offer you several less evasive options. These include:

• Draining the abscess (which is when the pus and infection are drained out. This can be done for both teeth and gum infections)
• A root canal procedure (which involves removing the pulp of the tooth, and thereby the infection, before filling it up to secure the tooth. You’ll need a crown to cap off the tooth)
• Antibiotics (Sometimes some strong antibiotics can be enough to kill the infection off completely. They can be provided to you before via tablets or during a root canal, which involves placing antibiotics within the pulp before the filling)

Can It be Removed?

Yes! In almost all cases, teeth can be removed, including ones that have been infected. A tooth extraction is usually the last line of defence, but it is an effective method to prevent the spread of the bacteria to other parts of the body. In some cases, the damage is so severe that your dentist might recommend that you do it immediately.

Before the procedure, the dentist will x-ray the teeth or tooth to locate the source of the pain. The procedure involves the dentist numbing the tooth and the surrounding area so you’ll feel only pressure, not any pain. They will use an elevator to loosen the tooth and forceps to remove it straight from your gums.

In some cases, you might require surgical removal, where the dentist will cut into your gum with a small incision to remove it or break the tooth in pieces to remove it bit by bit. It all depends on the condition and health of your teeth and gums.

Take Action Now!

The most important thing you should do is visit your dentist regularly to check on your teeth and keep them healthy. If you suspect that you have an infection – do not delay, take instant action now! We hope that this guide helps learn about infected teeth and if you can remove them or not. If you would like more information, Dr. Tracey Downtown Dental in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, can help you.