Severe Tooth Pain? When Emergency Tooth Extraction Is the Best Option

Tooth pain can be unbearable, making it hard to eat, sleep, or even focus on daily tasks. But when does a bad toothache turn into a true dental emergency? Sometimes, a tooth can be saved with a filling, root canal, or other treatment. However, there are situations where receiving urgent tooth removal services is the only option, for example, when there is severe pain, swelling, or bleeding. If you’re searching for “emergency tooth extraction near me”, we’re here to help. In this blog, we’ll explore the signs you need emergency tooth extraction, what you’ll experience during the procedure, how to prepare for it and more!

When Is Emergency Tooth Extraction Necessary?

According to a 2024 study published in the Military Medicine Journal, teeth requiring extraction made up 7.16% of all dental emergencies among U.S. military personnel. This shows that emergency tooth removal can be a game changer for many dental emergencies. Let’s take a look at the signs you need immediate treatment.

• Severe Pain

If your toothache doesn’t respond to painkillers and keeps getting worse, extraction might be necessary.

• Swelling and Infection 

Facial swelling, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth could indicate an abscessed tooth that needs to be removed.

• Trauma or Broken Tooth 

A tooth that is severely cracked or damaged from an accident may need immediate removal.

• Advanced Gum Disease

Periodontal disease can loosen teeth, making extraction necessary to prevent further damage.

• Impacted Wisdom Teeth 

If a wisdom tooth is stuck and causing pain or infection, it may require urgent extraction.

What Happens During an Emergency Tooth Extraction?

1. The dentist will take X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding bone structure.
2. A numbing agent is applied to ensure you don’t feel pain during the procedure.
3. Using specialized tools, the dentist will loosen and extract the tooth. In complex cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces for removal.
4. If the extraction site is large, dissolvable stitches may be used.
5. A piece of gauze is placed over the socket to control bleeding and help form a protective blood clot.

During the procedure, you shouldn’t feel pain, but some pressure is normal. If you have anxiety, ask your dentist about sedation options.

How Dentists Determine If Extraction Is Necessary

“We assess tooth extraction needs by checking for severe decay, infections, or damage that can’t be repaired. X-rays help us evaluate root and bone health. If a tooth is beyond saving, removal is the best option to prevent pain and complications. However, if there’s a chance to restore it with a filling, crown, or root canal, we will explore those options first.” Explains our emergency dentist at Walk In Dental Clinic.

How to Prepare for Emergency Tooth Removal

If you need an emergency extraction, stay calm and follow your dentist’s instructions. Then:

• Avoid eating right before the procedure, especially if sedation is involved.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home if needed.
• Wear comfortable clothing, and inform your dentist about any medications or health conditions.
• Most importantly, don’t stress! Your dentist will ensure you’re numb and comfortable throughout the process.

Emergency Tooth Extraction Costs

The cost of emergency tooth extraction can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure. At our clinic, we are pleased to inform you that we cover the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), ensuring eligible patients receive full or partial coverage for emergency dental services.

How to Care for Your Mouth After an Emergency Extraction

First 24 Hours:

• Keep the gauze in place and replace it as needed.
• Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
• Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.

Days 2–3:

• Rinse gently with warm salt water.
• Eat soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can slow healing.

Days 4–7:

• Swelling and discomfort should start to subside.
• Slowly introduce more solid foods.

Warning Signs to Watch For:

• Severe pain after Day 3 (could indicate dry socket).
• Persistent bleeding beyond 24 hours.
• Signs of infection like fever, pus, or worsening swelling.

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately.

Potential Risks and Complications to Watch For

While tooth extractions are common, complications can happen. The most common issue is dry socket, where the protective blood clot dislodges, causing pain. Infection, excessive bleeding, or swelling that worsens after a few days may also occur. Following post-extraction care reduces these risks. That said, if you still experience severe pain, fever, or prolonged bleeding, contact your dentist immediately.

Severe tooth pain? Don’t ignore it. Our emergency dental team is ready to provide fast, effective relief. Walk in today or call now for urgent tooth extractions and pain management. 

FAQs About Emergency Tooth Extraction