Infection-Related Extractions
Safe Tooth Extractions to Treat Infections at Newtown Dental

Tooth infections typically develop when bacteria enter the tooth through a cavity, crack, or other damage to the enamel. Once inside, the bacteria can reach the pulp and cause an infection. Abscesses form when the body attempts to contain the infection, leading to the development of a pocket of pus near the affected tooth.

While infections can sometimes be treated with antibiotics, the source of the infection must be addressed. If the tooth is too damaged to be saved with a root canal or other treatment, extraction may be necessary to remove the source of infection and prevent it from spreading.

Tooth infections, also known as abscesses, occur when bacteria invade the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth) due to decay, trauma, or gum disease. In many cases, infections can be treated with root canal therapy, but if the infection is too severe or if the tooth is damaged beyond repair, extraction may be necessary to prevent further complications.

Here are some common signs that an infected tooth may need to be extracted:

• Severe Tooth Pain
  Intense, throbbing pain that worsens when chewing or applying pressure is a common sign of an infected tooth that may need extraction.
• Swelling and Redness
  Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw can indicate that the infection is spreading.
• Pus or Abscess
  The presence of a pus-filled pocket near the tooth (an abscess) is a clear sign of infection. Abscesses often cause significant pain and should be treated promptly.
• Fever
  If an infection has spread, you may develop a fever or feel generally unwell.
• Bad Taste or Odor
  An infected tooth may cause a foul taste in your mouth or bad breath due to the bacteria and pus around the tooth.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek dental care immediately to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of your body.

At Newtown Dental, we ensure that infection-related extractions are performed safely and comfortably, with the goal of removing the infection and promoting healing. Here’s what you can expect during the extraction process:

1. Consultation and Diagnosis
   We’ll begin with a thorough examination and X-rays to assess the severity of the infection and determine whether extraction is necessary. If the infection is too advanced for a root canal or other treatment, we’ll recommend extraction.
2. Local Anesthesia and Sedation Options
   To ensure a pain-free experience, we’ll administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the infected tooth. If you’re anxious about the procedure or require a more complex extraction, we offer sedation options such as IV sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you stay relaxed.
3. Tooth Extraction
   Once the area is numb, your dentist will carefully loosen and remove the infected tooth. In some cases, a surgical extraction may be necessary, especially if the infection has damaged the surrounding bone or if the tooth is broken or impacted.
4. Post-Extraction Care
   After the extraction, we’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help manage pain, prevent further infection, and promote healing. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to ensure the infection is fully treated.

After an infection-related extraction, proper aftercare is essential to ensure that the infection is fully eliminated and to promote healing. Here are a few tips for caring for your mouth after the procedure:

• Take Prescribed Antibiotics
  If your dentist prescribes antibiotics, it’s important to take them as directed to ensure the infection is fully treated.
• Pain Management
  Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort following the extraction. Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling.
• Keep the Area Clean
  After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the extraction site clean. Be sure to avoid vigorous rinsing, as this can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
• Avoid Straws and Smoking
  Do not use straws or smoke for at least 48 hours after the extraction, as these actions can cause dry socket, a painful condition that can slow the healing process.
• Soft Foods Only
  Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes in the first few days after your extraction. Avoid hard or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site.

Your dentist will provide full aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor your healing and ensure the infection has been fully resolved.