Emergency Dentist Archives - Bayou Dental Group

Will Antibiotics Work Instead of a Repeat Root Canal?

Posted on February 11, 2024 by AllSmiles.

The temporary filling came out of my upper left canine tooth, and an abscess formed on my gum. My dentist recommended a repeat root canal to get rid of the abscess. Since the abscess isn’t painful, do I need a second root canal, or will antibiotics work just as well? I would like to move forward with a resolution because I’m scheduled to begin Invisalign in April. – Thanks. Bryce

Bryce

A root canal removes a tooth infection. A dentist will seal the root to prevent bacteria from re-entering. Replacing the pulp with root canal filler material and sealing it with cement is crucial to the long-term success of the treatment.

Temporary Filling: A Critical Step

A dentist places a temporary filling immediately after a root canal to protect the seal from saliva, which can degrade the root canal’s filling material if exposed.

Risks of Exposure: If the temporary filling falls out or a dentist doesn’t place it correctly, saliva can seep in and compromise the seal, potentially leading to a recurrence of the infection.

Will Antibiotics Get Rid of a Tooth Infection?

Antibiotics cannot reach the inside of the tooth due to the lack of blood circulation there, making them ineffective for treating the internal aspects of a tooth infection. They can only temporarily address abscesses in the gum and bone. The infection will return when you stop taking the medication.

Potential Risks of Ignoring Treatment

Left untreated, infections can spread to critical areas such as the eye or brain, especially infections in the upper jaw.

Antibiotic Resistance: Misusing antibiotics can contribute to developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a broader health risk.
Long-Term Damage: An untreated infection can cause decay from inside the tooth, eventually making it unrestorable, creating the need for extraction and a dental implant.

Ignoring failed root canal treatment poses serious health risks, emphasizing the need for prompt and proper follow-up care, including the placement of a permanent restoration like a crown. Treatment delays can lead to a dental emergency.

If you are hesitant about your dentist’s recommendation, you can get a second opinion from a dentist with advanced root canal training or an endodontist (root canal specialist).

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

How Can Treat a Tooth Infection at Home?

Posted on January 14, 2024 by AllSmiles.

How can I get rid of tooth infections at home? Three of my upper left molar teeth have cavities, but I cannot afford a dentist and do not have dental insurance. The left side of my face has been swollen for over a month. I’ve called ten dental offices within ten miles of my house, but none will accept a payment plan for filling cavities. I have a steady cleaning job, but my credit isn’t good, so I do not qualify for a healthcare credit card Also, I will have to pay for transportation to and from the dental office, so I’m limited in how far I can travel for dental work. How can I care for the infections at home? – Thanks. Lei

Lei,

Unfortunately, you can’t find a dentist to accept payment plans. However, you need prompt care when a tooth infection causes facial swelling to prevent the infection from compromising your overall health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, a severe untreated tooth infection can spread to other parts of the body and have serious effects. In rare cases, the infection can cause death. Five to ten people in the U.S. die from dental infections yearly. While antibiotics work for various infections, a dentist must remove infected tooth pulp to prevent it from spreading. Taking antibiotics without dental treatment can result in an antibiotic-resistant infection.

We recommend looking for a dental clinic or health clinic that provides dentistry services. In larger cities, dental schools offer free or discounted care for minor dental problems like fillings or extractions, but they may not offer root canal treatment.

Monroe, Louisiana, dentist Dr. David Finley sponsors this post.

What If a Piece of Wisdom Is Left After an Extraction?

Posted on October 23, 2023 by AllSmiles.

I let my dentist remove a wisdom tooth in late July because he said he had removed countless uncomplicated cases. He said he would refer me to an oral surgeon if the case looked complex. My gums closed over the sockets in about three weeks. I feel earaches and eye pain on the left side of my face. I returned to the dentist last, and he admitted that the problem could be from a tooth fragment that he could not remove. He said he could refer me to an oral surgeon if the pain didn’t improve by the end of the month. Why would the pain suddenly improve without any intervention? Should I ask for a referral now or try to get a same-day appointment with another dentist? – Thanks. Chandler from Cincinnati, OH

Chandler,

We understand your concerns about the leftover wisdom tooth fragment and your symptoms of an infection.

If a large piece of a tooth or root remains after extraction, your gums can heal over it. Still, leaving the fragment in your jaw can lead to a post-operative infection. However, post-operative infections generally occur with an impacted wisdom tooth that was already infected.

What If a Piece of Wisdom Is Left After an Extraction?

If a piece of wisdom tooth is left after extraction, the size and location of the fragment determine a dentist’s next steps. A dentist may leave a small root tip near a nerve or the sinus due to the risk of removing it. If a large piece of the root remains, a dentist should remove it or refer you to an oral surgeon for removal. In either case, a dentist should tell you if part of the tooth remains.

Although your case may not be appropriate for a same-day dental appointment, you can get a second opinion from a dentist with oral surgery skills. Also, you can ask your current dentist for a referral to an oral surgeon to examine your X-ray and complete the extraction. Depending on your complications and how much of the tooth was left, you may ask your dentist for a refund.

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, dentist and Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley, Dr. Thompson, and Dr. Coughran do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Remove a Tooth Root Left Behind After an Extraction?

Posted on September 12, 2023 by AllSmiles.

If my dentist left a tooth root behind after my upper right first molar extraction, do I need it removed? She referred me to an oral surgeon to remove the rest, but they can’t see me until December. Why would my dentist close the gums knowing she left a root behind? Do I really need an extraction, or is this part of the buddy system? Thanks. Diego from Boulder, CO

Diego,

The roots of the upper first molar teeth are often close to the sinus wall. If roots break during an extraction, attempting to remove them can poke into the sinus, causing a perforation. Removing the roots can be complex, and a sinus perforation increases complication risks.

How Long Can You Wait to Get a Tooth Root Tip Removed?

If a root fragment broke off during tooth extraction, removing it within a few days is the safest option. Otherwise, the bone will fill in, making retrieving the root tip more challenging.

Why Do Tooth Roots Break During an Extraction?

A tooth root tip may break during extraction if its shape prevents easy removal. It is not unusual for root tips to break. Some dentists who see the root shape on an X-ray before the extraction anticipate the complication and refer the patient to an oral surgeon. Immediate referral to a specialist ensures the tooth and roots get removed and can prevent the need for a second surgery.

We recommend getting a second opinion from an oral surgeon right away. If your dental insurance requires you to see a general dentist for a referral first, look for a skilled dentist with experience in tooth removal and try to get an appointment soon.

Must a Tooth Root Be Removed?

After reviewing your X-ray, an experienced dentist or surgeon will see the tooth root’s position and determine whether it will harm your sinuses or is too risky to remove.

Front Tooth Knocked Out and Replanted But Turning Dark

Posted on July 21, 2023 by AllSmiles.

My right front tooth was knocked out in February, and I immediately saw a dentist. The dentist replanted the tooth and bonded it. The tooth had a root canal, too. It looked okay at first, but now it is turning dark. I have a new dentist now who says that I need a crown. I was hoping not to get the tooth ground down for a crown. Also, I am afraid that the tooth will break. It must be somewhat weak since it was knocked out. Is a crown the right treatment if the tooth is turning dark? Thank you for your time.

Thank you, Demetri from IL

Demitri,

It is good that you acted quickly to save your front tooth. We understand your concerns about getting a dental crown. Preparing a front tooth for a crown will weaken it against lateral stress. If you have a forceful bite, it increases the risk of the tooth breaking.

Why Is Your Front Tooth Discoloring?

It is not unusual for a tooth to discolor after root canal treatment. Root canal filling material (gutta percha or cement) can accelerate discoloration. However, cleaning the inside of the dental crown from the filling material after root canal treatment helps preserve tooth shade.

How Can a Dentist Lighten Your Front Tooth?

A single porcelain veneer held by dental forceps

A cosmetic dentist may use a veneer for a front tooth that is turning dark

When a front root canal tooth darkens, a cosmetic dentist can bleach it internally. After bleaching the tooth, the dentist can place a fiberglass post in the tooth and fill the tooth with composite. A porcelain veneer can conceal discoloration.

Keep in mind that correcting discoloration in a front tooth requires the skill of a dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training. The dentist must match the porcelain veneer with the shade and characteristics of your surrounding teeth. Before recommending treatment, the dentist will x-ray your tooth to check the health of your tooth’s root and ensure it is not deteriorating. Otherwise, placing a veneer on the tooth will waste your time and money. A dentist may recommend a dental implant if the tooth’s condition declines.

What Are My Treatment Options for a Cracked Tooth?

Posted on June 25, 2023 by AllSmiles.

I was planning to start Invisalign next month, but my hygienist noticed two cracks in my upper first molar, so Invisalign has to wait. After an appointment with an endodontist who recommended a crown, my dentist used bonding on the tooth as a more conservative approach. Now the tooth is sensitive, and chewing on it hurts. I want this resolved so I can get Invisalign. Should I ask for a crown or an onlay or find a dentist to see me this week for a second opinion? Thank you. Kiera from Austin, TX

Kiera,

Your dentist or endodontist may review the X-ray again to reevaluate your tooth’s condition. You may still feel discomfort and sensitivity in the tooth if it is not fully repaired. An accurate diagnosis depends on these factors:

The crack’s location
The crack’s length and depth
Whether the damage is horizontal or vertical

Will a Dentist Recommend a Crown or an Onlay?

A dentist recommends a crown or an onlay depending on the tooth’s condition and position. Although an onlay or a crown can restore a tooth, we explain the differences.

Onlay

An onlay is a custom-made restoration that replaces only the damaged portion of your tooth, but not all dentists offer onlays. An onlay covers one or more cusps or peaks of a tooth; it can be gold, ceramic, or porcelain. A porcelain onlay may not be strong enough to restore a cracked tooth. A dentist may recommend a gold onlay or a dental crown.

Dental crown

A dental crown is a dental restoration that covers the entire tooth from the gumline up. An extensive crack may require root canal treatment and a dental crown. Or, if you already had a crown on a tooth, you could only receive another crown versus other treatment options.

Repeated attempts to restore the tooth will further weaken it. Speak with your dentist again to ask about your symptoms and the condition of your tooth and treatment recommendations before scheduling an urgent appointment for a second opinion.

Why Can’t a Dentist Repair My Broken New Crown?

Posted on April 26, 2023 by AllSmiles.

I saw an emergency dentist two days ago for a new crown I got in October 2022. A piece of the crown broke this past February. I was surprised that a new crown would break so quickly, but it was never comfortable. The dentist I had at the time adjusted the crown twice before it broke. I called dental offices yesterday and asked for an emergency appointment because I have no plans to return to the dentist who did the crown. The emergency dentist looked at the crown but said he couldn’t repair it and that he doesn’t fix crowns done by other dentists. He said I needed a new crown altogether. The broken crown cost me over $500 out of pocket because my insurance doesn’t cover much at all. I don’t have another $500 for a new crown. I’m frustrated because I don’t understand why the dentist can’t remove and fix the crown and cement it on again. Can I find another dentist to repair it? Thank you. Luke R.

Luke,

Thank you for contacting Bayou Dental Group about your broken crown. Your frustration is understandable.

Can You Repair a Broken Crown?

See a cosmetic dentist to determine whether a broken crown is savable.

Sometimes, a cosmetic dentist can use composite bonding to repair minor damage to a crown. However, an attempt to repair it might be a temporary solution or may weaken the crown. Several factors affect the success of a repair.

Crown location. Which tooth does the crown cover? If the crown covers a tooth used for biting or chewing, it will not withstand the force or pressure from eating.
Crown condition. Only minor damage is reparable. A low-quality crown will likely break during the repair.
Dentist’s skill and experience. Crown repair takes a delicate balance of art and skill. Your dentist may be unable to restore your crown.

A dental crown should last five years. If you can prove faulty dental work, your dental insurance company may provide some coverage toward a new crown. The dentist with whom you had an emergency appointment was understandably hesitant to repair your crown. Although you don’t want to return to the original dentist who placed the crown, you may save money. Explain to the dentist that the crown broke although it is new, and you were not negligent. He might be willing to replace it or contribute to the cost of your getting a new one from another dentist. You may also contact your insurance company to report the issue.

Should You Switch Dentists for a New Crown?

If you decide to switch dentists to replace your faulty crown, you will likely incur all the costs of getting a new one. The cost will include examinations, x-rays, taking impressions of your tooth, lab fees, and other associated fees. Check the experience and credentials of a dentist before switching. Ensure the dentist has post-graduate training in cosmetic dentistry and regularly participates in continuing education. Resolve the concerns with your crown as soon as possible to avoid another dental emergency.

Swollen Pocket in My Gums Hurts So Bad

Posted on February 27, 2023 by AllSmiles.

I have a swollen pocket in my gums that hurts really bad. It has been there for about 4 or 5 weeks. It is worse at night and keeps me awake sometimes. I got a job this past Tuesday, but the dental insurance isn’t active until next month. Will an antibiotic keep any infection controlled until I can see a dentist? I want to limit my out-of-pocket expenses until this job works out for my family and me. Anne from Salem, OR

Anne

Thank you for your question. Although one of our dentists at Bayou Dental Group would need to examine the swollen pocket and take x-rays, we will explain why antibiotics are insufficient.

Can You Take an Antibiotic for a Swollen Pocket in Your Gums?

Taking an antibiotic for a swollen pocket in your gums will not get rid of the infection. The infection will worsen over time and may infect other teeth and spread to your jawbone or into your bloodstream. A dentist may prescribe an antibiotic after removing an infection, but we cannot guess about your treatment options without an exam and x-rays.

It’s best to see a dentist right away. The sooner a dentist treats the infection, the easier the process will be, and you will be less likely to experience increased pain. After relieving your pain, the dentist will take an x-ray to explain the extent of treatment you need now and how much of it, if any, can wait until your dental insurance is in effect.

Delaying treatment can lead to a dental emergency that requires you to miss work days. Your oral health is the most important thing now, so don’t delay making an appointment. Ask the dental office’s billing representative about payment plans or financing.

Monore, Louisiana, accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry Dr. David Finley sponsors this post. Find out why so many in the Monroe community choose Bayou Dental Group for some of the best care in Monroe.

Will I Need Another Root Canal?

Posted on October 29, 2022 by AllSmiles.

My 2018 root canal on my lower right molar went smoothly, but since June this year, the tooth has hurt daily. Within the past week, I have taken ibuprofen daily to concentrate on work. The timing of this toothache is in the middle of my plans to leave town next week. How urgent is this issue? I don’t want to say I don’t have time for another root canal, but please tell me if I should see a dentist this week. Thank you. Haley from NH

Haley,

Thank you for your question. One of our dentists would need to examine and x-ray your tooth to determine the issue, but we can explain what is probably happening.

What Can You Do About Pain in a Root Canal Tooth?

If you feel pain in a tooth that had root canal treatment years ago, we recommend promptly scheduling an appointment with a dentist. You have symptoms of root canal failure, but only an exam and x-rays can confirm that.

Is Root Canal Failure Common?

Root canal failure occurs if a dentist does not entirely remove the infection. Although a tooth may initially feel better, the infection will eventually recur. Sometimes, a dentist cannot see curvy tooth channels, and the disease will remain. Unless a dentist has advanced training in root canal therapy, they probably do not have instruments that access deep channels in the teeth. Your dentist may refer you to a root canal specialist (endodontist).

What Is the Treatment for Root Canal Failure?

Repeat root canal treatment or surgery is the treatment for root canal failure. After taking an x-ray of the infected tooth, an endodontist will use specialized tools to remove the infection and then sterilize the tooth. An apicoectomy or root canal surgery is sometimes required to access the root tip through your bone.

An endodontist will evaluate the condition of your tooth and determine whether it is savable or must be removed and replaced with a dental implant. Please do not delay treatment to prevent the situation from escalating.

Should I Wait for Extraction of a Failed Root Canal Tooth?

Posted on August 4, 2022 by AllSmiles.

I saw a specialist last Wednesday for a toothache that I’ve had since June. After the pain and bad taste in my mouth worsened and I began to feel foggy and tired, my dentist sent me to an endodontist. This doctor must be popular because I cannot get the abscessed tooth removed until the end of the month. I asked for an earlier date, but the scheduler said that was the next available appointment.

The tooth is my lower right second molar, and I had a repeat root canal on the tooth in 2016. If I continue to feel worse each week, should I wait until the end of the month for extraction or ask my dentist to refer me to another specialist? I try not to read too much online about my diagnosis, but if I understand it correctly, this infection can go into my bloodstream if it is not already there. Thanks for your help. Tamera from Capitol Heights, MD

Tamera,

Thank you for your question. You need prompt dental care, and we will explain why.

Should You Delay Removing a Failed Root Canal Tooth?

If your failed root canal tooth is making you ill, you should not delay tooth removal unless the endodontist gives you a reason. The American Dental Association confirms that an infection will continue to spread without tooth removal, affecting your jawbone, other teeth, and oral tissue. Although some people may want to rely on antibiotics, the medication will calm the effects of the infection but will not remove it. The scheduler told you that the end of the month is the next available appointment, so you do not need to suffer from the tooth. Find another specialist or dentist quickly.

Who Can Remove a Failed Root Canal Second Molar?

Your doctor can refer you to an endodontist, an oral surgeon, or a general dentist with oral surgery training and experience to remove your second molar. Consider these facts:

General dentists who perform oral surgery could remove the tooth unless the specialist indicates that removal will be complex.
You will get relief from your symptoms after tooth removal.
Without tooth removal, you will get increasingly ill.

Ask your dentist for a referral or schedule an appointment with a general dentist with advanced oral surgery training.

Dr. David Finley, a Monroe, Louisiana dentist and Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, sponsors this post. Read about Dr. Finley’s commitment to providing patients with some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Bayou Dental Group

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Temporary Filling: A Critical Step

Will Antibiotics Get Rid of a Tooth Infection?

Potential Risks of Ignoring Treatment

What If a Piece of Wisdom Is Left After an Extraction?

How Long Can You Wait to Get a Tooth Root Tip Removed?

Why Do Tooth Roots Break During an Extraction?

Must a Tooth Root Be Removed?

Why Is Your Front Tooth Discoloring?

How Can a Dentist Lighten Your Front Tooth?

Will a Dentist Recommend a Crown or an Onlay?

Onlay

Dental crown

Can You Repair a Broken Crown?

Should You Switch Dentists for a New Crown?

Can You Take an Antibiotic for a Swollen Pocket in Your Gums?

What Can You Do About Pain in a Root Canal Tooth?

Is Root Canal Failure Common?

What Is the Treatment for Root Canal Failure?

Should You Delay Removing a Failed Root Canal Tooth?

Who Can Remove a Failed Root Canal Second Molar?

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