I had a huge filling on a decayed top left molar early last year. The dentist filled the tooth because I could not afford a crown. Since that time, I’ve only been to the dentist for cleanings because I did not have dental insurance. The tooth with the filling is starting to hurt, and my dentist said I would need a root canal soon. I still do not have dental insurance and cannot afford to pay for a root canal and crown out-of-pocket. I have antibiotics from my primary care doctor that I took for a UTI. If it seems that my tooth is infected, is it okay to use the leftover antibiotics to take care of it until I can get the tooth pulled? If the tooth hurts, how much longer do I have before I need it pulled? I want to save money from a few paychecks for the extractions. Thanks. – Eliana
Eliana,
Only root canal treatment can clear a tooth infection
A dentist needs to examine your tooth to determine if it is infected. You should schedule the exam right away. Antibiotics will not make the infection go away. Root canal treatment removes a tooth infection. And after root canal treatment, antibiotics will keep the infection away. But your dentist will decide if you need antibiotics.
If you do not have dental insurance, look for an emergency dentist who accepts forms of payment other than dental insurance. Many dentists accept credit cards or offer payment plans or financing. Leaving the tooth untreated will lead to more expensive problems, like an infection that can spread to other teeth or your bone.
Even if you are considering a tooth extraction, please see a dentist promptly to discuss your options.
David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post.
