Toothaches are incredibly frustrating, especially when the pain is severe enough to disrupt your daily life. If you’ve been struggling with an infected or abscessed tooth, you may wonder, “Can I just pull the tooth myself to stop the pain?” The short answer is no, it’s not a good idea to pull an infected tooth yourself.
However, understanding what steps to take can help you address the issue effectively and safely.
This blog will guide you through the considerations surrounding infected or abscessed teeth, the risks of pulling an infected tooth, and what to do instead to get relief and protect your overall health.
Key Takeaways
- Never attempt to pull your own infected or abscessed tooth; it can cause severe complications and long-term damage.
- Consult a qualified orthodontist or dentist immediately to assess the issue and discuss treatment options such as root canals, antibiotics, or professional extractions.
- Managing pain with over-the-counter medication and saltwater rinses can provide temporary relief until your dental appointment.
- Prevent future tooth infections by maintaining proper oral hygiene, scheduling regular dental check-ups, and addressing minor dental issues promptly.
What is an Abscessed or Infected Tooth?
An infected tooth typically means that bacteria have entered the tooth’s inner layers, leading to pain, swelling, and potential complications. A tooth abscess—a severe form of infection—occurs when pus collects at the base of your tooth or in the surrounding tissue, often causing intense discomfort and swelling.
Common symptoms of an infected or abscessed tooth include:
- Persistent, throbbing pain in the tooth or gum
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary foods
- Swelling in the face or mouth
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes
If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s crucial to seek help from an orthodontist as soon as possible.
Can You Pull an Infected Tooth?
You might think that removing the tooth will eliminate your discomfort, but pulling an infected tooth—especially without professional help—is not recommended.
Here’s why trying to pull an infected tooth yourself can be risky:
The Infection Can Worsen
Extracting a tooth without properly addressing the underlying infection can lead to the spread of bacteria to other parts of your body, potentially causing life-threatening conditions like sepsis.
This is because the infection will not be completely removed, and bacteria can quickly regrow in the area. A professional extraction procedure, combined with appropriate antibiotic treatment, significantly reduces this risk.
It May Not Solve the Problem
Pulling the tooth might not completely eliminate the infection, especially if there is an abscess. The infection could be lurking in neighboring tissue or bone and will require treatment.
The only way to ensure the infection is fully addressed is to seek professional care.
It’s Painful and Dangerous
Dental extractions performed by a professional involve numbing agents and sterilized tools to minimize pain and reduce the risk of complications.
Attempting to do this yourself can lead to unnecessary pain, excessive bleeding, or long-term damage.
Tooth Replacement Challenges
Losing a tooth creates gaps that can lead to further dental problems such as misalignment. A dentist can advise you on options like dental implants or bridges after a professional extraction.
Which leads us to the next question: what should you do instead?
What Should You Do Instead?
If your tooth is infected or abscessed, it’s critical to act quickly—but this doesn’t mean trying to solve the problem on your own.
Follow these steps instead:
1. Consult an Orthodontist Right Away
Only a qualified orthodontist can properly assess the situation and determine whether the tooth can be saved or needs to be extracted. Root canals, antibiotics, and proper extractions are some options they may recommend.
If you’re near Bucks County, PA, My Smile Orthodontist offers top-of-the-line orthodontist care to assist you.
2. Take Prescribed Antibiotics
For infections or abscesses, a dentist might prescribe antibiotics to address the infection before performing any procedures. This step minimizes the risk of complications during treatment.
This is especially important for people with underlying medical conditions that can increase the risks associated with infection.
3. Manage Pain Sensibly
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort until your dental appointment. Saltwater rinses are also excellent for easing swelling and sanitizing the area.
This is not to say you should ignore your pain; if it becomes unbearable, contact your orthodontist for further advice.
4. Follow Professional Advice
Depending on the severity of the infection, your orthodontist or dentist may choose to treat the tooth with a root canal rather than removing it. Always follow their advice to ensure the best outcome for your oral health.
Thoroughly clean your teeth and follow post-treatment instructions to prevent further infections.
Can an Abscessed Tooth Be Pulled?
Yes, a dentist or orthodontist can extract an abscessed tooth, but only under specific and controlled circumstances. If the abscess is too large or the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be the best option to protect the surrounding teeth and prevent further damage.
During the procedure, the dentist will make sure the infection is managed (either by prescribing antibiotics beforehand or draining the abscess) and take every precaution to ensure the process is safe and painless.
Preventing Future Tooth Infections
While dealing with a current infection, it’s also a good time to think about your overall oral health and how to avoid dental issues in the future.
Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy and infection-free:
- Brush and floss daily using proper techniques.
- Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings with your orthodontist.
- Avoid sugary or acidic foods that contribute to decay.
- Address minor dental issues, like cavities, before they worsen.
At My Smile Orthodontist, we not only specialize in orthodontics but also work closely with your general dentist to ensure your oral health is in perfect shape. Whether you’re looking for early orthodontic care or adult, we’re here to help!
FAQ
Q: Can an infected tooth be pulled?
A: Yes, a dentist or orthodontist can extract an infected tooth, but it’s not recommended to try and do it yourself.
Q: What are the signs of an infected tooth?
A: Common signs include severe pain in the tooth or gum, sensitivity to hot/cold/sugary foods, swelling in the face/mouth, and fever/swollen lymph nodes.
Q: Can I pull my own abscessed tooth?
A: No, attempting to pull an abscessed tooth yourself is not recommended as it can worsen the infection and lead to other complications.
The Bottom Line
Maintaining your oral health is essential to prevent serious issues like infections and abscesses. While pulling an infected tooth might sound like a quick fix, it’s always best to leave such procedures to dental professionals who can ensure safety and effective treatment.
By consulting an orthodontist, following their advice, and practicing good oral hygiene habits, you can protect your smile and avoid complications down the line.
If you suspect you have an infected tooth but aren’t sure where to turn, schedule an appointment with My Smile Orthodontist today. Our caring team, led by Dr. Neil Mandalia, will work to provide you with compassionate, expert care to get your mouth health back on track.
Don’t wait—take the first step toward relief by reaching out to us. Because your smile deserves professional care!
