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A badly infected or broken tooth sometimes has to come out quickly. When that is considered, what to arrange and how to heal well back home in Tillsonburg.
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Tillsonburg patients are welcome at our Port Dover office
Every dental service for Tillsonburg patientsWhen removal cannot wait
An emergency extraction may be considered when a tooth is severely infected, badly broken, causing intense pain or too damaged to save. Even when removal is urgent, the dentist will examine the tooth, explain why extraction is recommended and discuss any alternatives so you can make an informed decision.
If you are in Tillsonburg and a tooth is causing severe problems, call our Port Dover office to describe the symptoms before travelling. Since you will need to travel home afterwards, ask whether you should arrange a driver and plan for rest once you are back.

When extraction is needed
A tooth may need urgent removal if it has a large fracture below the gumline, extensive decay that cannot be restored, a severe infection that cannot be managed another way or significant damage from injury. Wisdom teeth causing infection or pain may also be considered. The dentist will explain the specific reasons for your tooth.
Root canal treatment or other repairs can sometimes save a tooth that seems beyond hope. Ask the dentist whether these options are possible and what they would involve. Understanding the alternatives, including their success rates and costs in time, helps you decide whether extraction is the best choice.
Preparing
Tell the team about all medications, especially blood thinners, and health conditions such as diabetes or heart problems. Mention allergies and any reactions to anaesthetics. Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice. This information helps the dentist plan safely, even in an urgent situation.
If sedation is used or you feel unwell, arrange for someone to drive you home to Tillsonburg. Have soft foods, cold drinks and pain relief ready at home. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Bring a list of questions so you understand aftercare before you leave.
The procedure
Local anaesthetic numbs the area, though infected tissue can sometimes be harder to freeze. Let the team know if you feel sharp pain so they can adjust. The tooth is loosened and removed, sometimes in sections. You may feel pressure and hear sounds, but you should not feel sharp pain.
After removal, gauze is placed to control bleeding and help a clot form. If infection was present, the dentist may clean the area and discuss whether antibiotics are needed. You will receive aftercare instructions. Ask about pain management and when to return for a check.
Recovery
Bite on gauze as directed, avoid rinsing forcefully, spitting, using straws or smoking for the advised period, and eat soft foods on the other side. Some swelling and discomfort is normal. Call the Port Dover office if bleeding persists, pain worsens after a few days or you notice fever or a bad taste.
Once healing is underway, discuss whether to replace the tooth with an implant, bridge or denture. Some options depend on how the area heals. Even for a back tooth, ask how the gap may affect your bite and neighbouring teeth over time, so you can plan your next steps.
Planning your appointment
Phone our Port Dover office to describe your pain, swelling or damage. The team will discuss urgency and whether an extraction appointment can be arranged.
Have your medication list ready, arrange a driver if needed and plan a quiet recovery at home.
Before you book
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Often, yes, but sometimes the dentist may first manage the infection or swelling to make treatment safer and more comfortable. The approach depends on the situation. The dentist will explain their recommendation and the reasons for it.
Not always. Antibiotics may be prescribed if infection is spreading or for certain health conditions. The dentist will decide based on your situation. Take any prescription exactly as directed and report side effects.
Some discomfort and swelling are common for a few days. Pain relief recommended by the dentist usually helps. Increasing pain after several days could signal a dry socket or infection, so contact the office if this happens.
If only local anaesthetic is used and you feel well, you may be able to drive. If sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you. Ask the team before your appointment.
Implants, bridges and dentures are common options. The right choice depends on the location, your oral health and preferences. Discuss replacement once healing has begun so you can make an informed decision.
When a tooth cannot be kept, plan the removal and what follows. Questions to ask, healing tips and replacement options for patients from Tillsonburg.
An emergency exam finds the cause of sudden pain, swelling or damage. How to describe symptoms by phone before driving from Tillsonburg to Port Dover.
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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