Many people with a painful, swollen gum want the tooth out straight away. In practice some cases can be removed at once, others need the infection treated first, and the dentist decides after examining you.
- Whether a swollen, infected tooth can be removed depends on the degree of infection, and the dentist decides after examination.
- With acute, heavy swelling, the dentist usually treats the infection first so that removal is safer.
- Do not buy medicine yourself without the dentist's instruction.
- Swelling spreading to the face or neck, fever, or trouble swallowing or breathing needs urgent care.
Can a swollen, infected tooth be removed?
The answer is that it depends on the degree of infection and on each case. In some cases the dentist can still remove the tooth right away, while in others the infection must be treated first. Please do not decide on your own at home. Let the dentist examine you and look at the X-ray.
Why must some cases be treated first?
- Acute infection with heavy swelling: the inflamed area often responds less well to anaesthetic, so you may feel more during the procedure.
- Risk of spreading: removing a tooth during a severe infection can allow it to spread further if it is not kept under control.
- Poor healing when the surrounding tissue is heavily inflamed.
In that situation the dentist may treat the area to reduce inflammation, possibly with suitable medicine prescribed for you, and then choose a better time to remove the tooth. Please do not buy medicine yourself.
When can the dentist remove it straight away?
If the inflammation is mild, the tooth cannot be saved and the dentist judges that removal can be done safely, it may be carried out early. A decayed tooth broken down to the root or a small abscess is sometimes removed at once to take away the cause. You can read more about whether a decayed tooth broken to the root should be removed.
Warning signs that need urgent care
- Swelling that spreads to the face, eye or neck.
- Fever, chills or feeling very tired.
- Difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing or breathing.
- Severe pain that does not ease.
These signs mean you should go to a medical facility straight away. See also our article on facial swelling from a tooth and what it means.
What should you prepare for the visit?
Tell the dentist how long it has hurt, whether you have a fever, any medical conditions and any medicine you take. For the anaesthetic part, you can read about whether anaesthesia for extractions and fillings is safe.
You are welcome to walk in during opening hours at Nha Khoa Kỳ Hòa, 266A - 268, 3 Tháng 2 Street, Hòa Hưng Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 (Zalo 082.299.3377) to ask about quieter time slots.
Frequently asked questions
Can a tooth with a swollen, infected gum be removed immediately?
It depends on the degree of infection. Some cases can be removed at once, others need the infection treated first. The dentist decides after examining you and viewing the X-ray.
Should I buy medicine myself when my tooth is swollen and infected?
No. Let the dentist examine you and prescribe suitable treatment, because self-medicating can mask signs or cause harm.
When must I go for urgent care with a swollen tooth?
If swelling spreads to the face or neck, or you have fever, difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing or breathing, go to a medical facility straight away.