The Role of an Emergency Dentist in Managing Infections

No one ever plans for dental emergencies like infections, but an emergency dentist can be your first line of defense against oral bacteria looking to infect teeth, gum tissues, or your jawbone.

Dental infections always require emergency dental care to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body, such as the heart, where it can have life-threatening consequences. Early treatments also increase the odds of the dentist being able to save the infected tooth.

How an emergency dentist treats dental infections

Patients with infected teeth often rush to the nearest clinic to alleviate the excruciating toothaches caused by it. Over-the-counter toothache remedies are rarely effective at managing the pain caused by infected teeth. Other symptoms of an infected tooth include swelling, fever, and an unusual taste in the mouth.

Here is how an emergency dentist addresses oral infections:

1. Clinical examination and diagnosis

The dentist looks for symptoms of infection, like red, swollen gums, and may use X-rays to pinpoint an abscess or infected tooth roots.

2. Incision and drainage

If an abscess is detected, the dentist makes an incision to drain pus from the area. Local anesthetics are administered before the incision, so patients do not feel pain. Draining an abscess reduces pressure in the area and helps to prevent the infection from spreading.

3. Root canal therapy

Root canal therapy is performed if the dentist detects an infected tooth. The dentist removes infected tissue, cleans and shapes canals, then seals the tooth to block bacteria from reentering during the procedure. This preserves the tooth and stops the infection from spreading. Root canals are often recommended for tooth infections when there is no threat of the infection spreading into the jaw. Extractions are recommended when there is a serious risk of the infection spreading. 

4. Prescription of antibiotics

Antibiotics might be prescribed to control the infection. Always complete the full course as recommended for optimal benefits.

5. Temporary restorations and protective splints

A crown is typically placed after root canal therapy to prevent bacteria from entering and to protect the tooth. A temporary crown is typically provided immediately after the procedure, and patients return in about two weeks for their permanent crowns.

6. Pain management

Severe infections often come with intense pain. Emergency dentists sometimes recommend or prescribe painkillers to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Cold compresses and saltwater rinses also help soothe tissues.

7. Referral

Complex infections that spread deep into facial spaces may require referral to an oral surgeon or hospital emergency department. Your dentist coordinates care and schedules follow-up visits to monitor healing and place final restorations.