Why Pulling Infected Teeth May Be Necessary?

Sometimes it is th pulling infected teeth that will stop the infection from advancing in your mouth. Tooth infections, aka dental abscesses, happen when bacteria get into the pulp of a tooth, resulting in the presence of pain, swelling, and even pus. While using antibiotics or performing root canal therapy may be options to take, only in cases where infected teeth are pulled can the infection be stopped from spreading and the neighboring teeth and gums be protected.

Suppose severe pain or swelling caused by an infected tooth is your case; then, going to your dentist to get a professional diagnosis on the extraction as the next step is very vital. Infected teeth removal is done to stop the infection from going deep and spreading to other teeth or making the body sick in general.

When Are Pulling Infected Teeth the Appropriate Decision?

Most of the time, the situation in which the dentist would advise pulling infected teeth is where the infection is so severe, and the tooth is beyond saving by any treatment such as root canal therapy or antibiosis. Tooth extraction is the best idea supported by a doctor in the following cases:

• Severe Tooth Decay: When the decay has gone all the way to the pulp and a filling or crown cannot rejuvenate the tooth, the procedure for the removal of infected teeth is a must-have.
• Gum Disease: When the periodontal condition has become so serious that it affects the tooth and the bone around it, the option of extraction is the only one left.
• Unsuccessful Tooth Rescue: Hence, if the infection is extensive or the tooth is so heavily fractured that it’s beyond saving, then the process of pulling the infected teeth will be the only way to go.
• Recurrent Infections: In case an infected tooth is infested multiple times, a dental doctor may suggest the removal of the tooth so that no more infections occur.

What to Expect When Pulling Infected Teeth?

Pulling infected teeth is a straightforward procedure that depends on the severity of the infection and the condition of the tooth. What follows is a summary of the steps involved:

• Consultation: Your dentist will perform a physical examination of the tooth and may also take an X-ray to determine the degree of the infection.
• Anesthesia: To make the process a comfortable one, your dentist will give a local anesthetic that will kill the sensation in the area of the infected tooth. For difficult extractions, sedation or general anesthesia might be used.
• Tooth Extraction: The doctor will utilize professional instruments to pry out and take away the infected tooth from its socket. If the tooth is over-infected, the operation can be slow.
• Post-Extraction Care: Your dentist will give you the directions of care for the place where the extraction has taken place after the removal of infected teeth. These entail directions on the control of pain, swelling, and infection over the area.

The purpose of pulling infected teeth is to eliminate infection, facilitate healing, and maintain oral health. If used properly, you are likely to have a low risk of complications after the treatment.

How to Care for Your Mouth After Pulling Infected Teeth?

The proper aftercare for the site of extraction is very important for the healing process as well as for the prevention of any other problems that might arise after pulling infected teeth. The tips include the following:

• Follow the Pain Management Plan: The dentist will suggest that you take either over-the-counter or prescription painkillers to help you manage the pain after the procedure.
• Keep the Area Clean: After the first 24 hours, gently rinse with warm salt water to keep the area clean and help prevent infection.
• Avoid Certain Foods: Eat only soft foods and do not chew directly on the extraction site until it has healed. Hot or spicy foods can cause an irritation of the area.
• Don’t Smoke: Smoking can delay the process of healing and can also lead to the occurrence of complications, like dry socket, after tooth extraction of infected teeth.

FAQs About Pulling Infected Teeth