The pain from an abscessed tooth can be so intense that you might feel tempted to pull it out yourself. However, put those pliers back, as there are some dangers of pulling an abscessed tooth. Such a tooth is like a ticking time bomb you diffuse on your own.
What Does an Abscessed Tooth Look Like?
An abscess is a buildup of pus in a space or cavity. The symptoms you have depend on the type of dental abscess. You might see pimple-like sores on your gums or notice drainage from the tooth. One type of abscess, called a periapical abscess, forms around the root of the tooth. It is identifiable on an X-ray.
Will Pulling an Infected Tooth Stop the Pain?
Pulling an abscessed tooth can provide quick relief from intense pain, especially if it’s due to pressure building up in the tooth roots. It also removes the source of the infection, lowering the risk of it spreading to nearby tissues.
Dangers of Pulling an Abscessed Tooth without Antibiotics
When you pull an abscessed tooth without antibiotics, bacteria can enter your bloodstream through the open wound. This spreads the infection throughout your body. This can cause serious health issues like sepsis, heart valve infections (endocarditis), and even brain abscesses.
The extraction itself can also damage nearby teeth and gums. This increases the risk of more infections. Instead of trying to pull the tooth on your own, it’s important to see a dentist. They will likely give you antibiotics to control the infection before considering extraction as a last option. While pulling the tooth can ease the pain, the risks are too high, so professional dental care is the safest choice.
What Happens to the Abscess After Tooth Extraction?
After the tooth extraction, the abscess will heal on its own. However, it’s important to take care of your mouth to prevent infection and other issues. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to consult your dentist.
Will a Dentist Pull an Infected Tooth the Same Day?
A dentist can extract an abscessed tooth on the appointment day. However, this decision depends on the intensity of the infection. If it has already spread, pulling it immediately can impose the following risks:
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Affecting Nearby Teeth and Causing Gum Disease
Tooth extraction isn’t simple. It involves delicate bone structures, including nearby teeth and gum tissues. Pulling an abscessed tooth can put the surrounding bone structure at risk. Additionally, the empty socket left behind can invite bacteria. It can result in further decay and possibly gum disease if you haven’t had it before.
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Exposing the Maxillary Sinus
If the abscess is in your upper teeth, removing the tooth can puncture the sinus cavity above it. This creates a pathway for infections to enter the sinuses. This can lead to breathing problems and sinusitis, which can require surgery.
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Bone Loss
When a tooth is pulled, the empty socket means the bone is no longer stimulated. This can cause bone shrinkage. This can lead to the need for bone grafts if you want dental implants later.
Ending Note
Tooth abscesses are painful enough to create an urge to go for tooth extraction. However, there are too many dangers of pulling an abscessed tooth. Therefore, your dentist will consider using the antibiotics first.
Visit our dental professionals at Noble Smile Family Dentistry. We offer top-notch treatments like orthodontics and gum treatment, implants, cosmetic bonding, and dentures. Call us at (281) 394-2929 to make an appointment.
