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When a tooth is badly broken or infected, urgent removal may be advised. La Salette patients can learn how the decision is made and how to recover.
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See every dental service for La SaletteWhen a tooth must come out soon
An emergency extraction may be recommended when a tooth is fractured beyond repair, severely infected, badly loosened or causing intense pain that cannot be managed otherwise. Even in urgent situations, the dentist should explain why removal is advised and whether any option exists to save the tooth.
If you are in La Salette and think a tooth may need to come out, call our Port Dover office first. The team can discuss your symptoms, advise on how soon you should be seen and let you know whether referral to an oral surgeon may be needed.

Making the decision
A tooth split below the gum, a root fracture, extensive decay or advanced gum disease with severe bone loss may mean the tooth cannot be restored predictably. In those cases, removing it can stop pain and remove a source of infection. X-rays and examination findings help support this decision.
Ask whether root canal treatment, a crown or another option might save the tooth and what the chances of success would be. Sometimes there is a choice, and sometimes there is not. Understanding the reasons can make an urgent decision feel less overwhelming.
Before removal
Tell the dentist about blood thinners, bone medicines, heart conditions, diabetes, recent surgeries and allergies. Some conditions call for additional precautions or coordination with your physician. Do not stop medicines without professional advice, even if you think they might affect bleeding.
If there is significant infection or swelling, the dentist may recommend treatment to control it before or along with the extraction. Antibiotics may sometimes be prescribed. Keep track of your symptoms and report fever or spreading swelling promptly, since these can indicate a more serious infection.
The extraction
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area. Infected tissue can sometimes make numbing take longer. The dentist then loosens and removes the tooth, sometimes in sections. You may feel pressure but should report sharp pain. Stitches may be placed if needed.
Gauze is placed to help a clot form. You will receive instructions on bleeding control, pain relief, eating and activities to avoid. Ask questions before leaving, especially about warning signs and what to do if bleeding resumes once you are home.
Recovery
Avoid smoking, using straws, spitting forcefully or vigorous rinsing for the period advised. Eat soft foods and keep the area clean as instructed. Some swelling and soreness are normal. Contact the office if pain increases after a few days, you notice a bad taste or fever develops.
Once healing is under way, the dentist can discuss whether to replace the tooth with a bridge, implant or partial denture, or leave the space. Replacing a tooth can help prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting and maintain chewing ability. Take time to understand the options.
Planning your appointment
Call our Port Dover office to describe your pain or injury. The team will discuss urgency and timing, and let you know if sedation or a referral may be involved.
Arrange a ride if sedation is possible, and plan a quiet rest of the day with soft foods ready at home.
Before you book
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Often yes, though in some cases the dentist may first manage the infection. The decision depends on the severity, your health and the tooth involved. The dentist will explain the safest approach.
The area is numbed, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Infection can sometimes make numbing less effective, so tell the dentist if you feel discomfort during the procedure.
Increasing pain a few days after extraction, sometimes with a bad taste or visible bone, may indicate a dry socket. Contact the office, as treatment can help relieve the discomfort.
Not always, but replacing it can help with chewing and prevent shifting of other teeth. The dentist can discuss bridges, implants, partial dentures or leaving the space after healing.
Start with soft foods and avoid chewing on the extraction site for several days. Gradually return to normal foods as comfort allows. Follow the specific guidance you receive from the dentist.
When a tooth cannot be saved, removal may be the next step. La Salette patients can learn how extractions are planned and what healing usually looks like.
An emergency dental exam focuses on one urgent problem. La Salette patients can see what the dentist checks, what to bring and how next steps are planned.
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New patients and CDCP patients are welcome. Tell us how we can help and our Port Dover dental team will follow up with you.
Evening appointments Monday and Tuesday