How long can I wait for a tooth extraction? Years ago, I got a gold cap on a second molar tooth. Then, in 2010, I had to get a root canal on it. The gum around the tooth got infected recently, so my dentist gave me some antibiotics and sent me to a specialist. The specialist said the tooth is cracked and won’t survive another root canal. She suggested pulling it out. She prescribed antibiotics first.
The infection’s gone now, thanks to the antibiotics, but I’m really not looking forward to losing the tooth. I’m thinking about leaving it alone and only pulling it if it gets infected again. Does that sound reasonable, or are there any problems with waiting? – Thanks. Dylan
Dylan,
We understand your hesitation about extracting the tooth, but we wouldn’t recommend waiting for it to become infected again before acting.
While penicillin has helped manage the infection, it hasn’t eliminated it. Once the antibiotic course is complete, the infection will likely return and worsen, leading to increased discomfort and potentially more complex treatment.
Additionally, extracting a tooth with an active infection can be less ideal. Addressing the infection first with antibiotics minimizes risks associated with the extraction process. The tooth can feel better after completing antibiotics, but it still requires extraction to prevent recurring infections, dental emergencies, and antibiotic resistance.
We recommend discussing this further with your dentist to determine the best course of action for your oral health.
David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post.
Two weeks ago, my dentist extracted six teeth to prepare me for an upper denture. I had severe gum disease, and several teeth loosened and fell out, so I only had six teeth left. The left side of my face was already swollen before the extractions. My dentist said infection from gum disease caused the swelling, so she prescribed amoxicillin for me to take before she completed the extractions. The infection seemed to be getting better, but it got worse toward the middle of last week. I called my dentist, and she said that I needed to keep taking the antibiotics. I’m taking ibuprofen, but it is not helping at all. And the left side of my face feels hard. Should I expect improvement, or does it sound as if something else is wrong? Thank you. Don
