Root Canal or Extraction? How Dentists Treat Abscessed Teeth

If you have ever felt a sharp, throbbing pain in your tooth that won’t go away, it might be a sign of an abscessed tooth. Many people in the United States suffer from this kind of dental problem but aren’t sure what to do. Should the tooth be saved with a root canal? Or is it better to remove it through extraction?

In this blog, we’ll explain what an abscessed tooth is, the common causes, symptoms, and how dentists decide between root canal or extraction. We’ll also talk about pain relief options like Aspadol, especially when the pain becomes hard to manage.

What Is an Abscessed Tooth?

An abscessed tooth happens when a bacterial infection causes a pocket of pus to form in or around the tooth. This infection usually starts when tooth decay or a cracked tooth allows bacteria to enter the soft pulp inside.

If left untreated, an abscess can spread to the jaw, neck, or even the brain. That’s why it’s very important to treat it early.

Signs and Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth

You may have an abscessed tooth if you notice the following symptoms:

• Severe, throbbing toothache

• Swelling in the face or cheek

• Pain when chewing or biting

• Bad taste in the mouth

• Fever or chills

• Red or swollen gums

• A bump (like a pimple) on the gum

• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold

If you have any of these signs, especially with swelling or fever, you should see a dentist right away.

What Causes Abscessed Teeth?

There are a few reasons why a tooth might become abscessed:

• Untreated tooth decay

• Broken or chipped teeth

• Gum disease (periodontitis)

• Poor oral hygiene

• Previous dental trauma

Once bacteria enter the tooth pulp, they can quickly multiply and cause infection. The body reacts by sending white blood cells, which creates pus.

How Dentists Treat Abscessed Teeth

When you visit a dentist for an abscessed tooth, their goal is to remove the infection, stop the pain, and save the tooth if possible.

The two main treatment options are:

1. Root Canal Treatment

2. Tooth Extraction

Let’s look at both in more detail.

Root Canal: Saving the Tooth

A root canal is often the first choice if the tooth can still be saved. During this procedure:

1. The dentist removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth.

2. The inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected.

3. A filling is placed to seal the space.

4. A crown is often added later to protect the tooth.

Benefits of a Root Canal:

• Keeps your natural tooth

• Restores normal chewing and function

• Keeps your bite aligned

• Prevents nearby teeth from shifting

When Root Canal Is Recommended:

• The tooth structure is still strong

• The infection has not spread too far

• You’re in good health and can handle the procedure

In the U.S., root canals are commonly done and have a high success rate. Dentists try to save the tooth whenever possible because it avoids future problems like bone loss in the jaw.

Tooth Extraction: Removing the Tooth

Sometimes, a root canal is not enough. If the tooth is too damaged or the infection has spread, the dentist may suggest removing the tooth.

When Extraction Is Recommended:

• The tooth is cracked below the gum line

• There is too much decay to restore the tooth

• The infection is too severe

• You have repeated infections in the same tooth

After an extraction, the dentist may recommend replacing the tooth with a bridge, implant, or dentures to keep the rest of your teeth in place.

Pros of Extraction:

• Removes the infection completely

• Fast recovery time in most cases

• Less expensive upfront than root canal

Cons of Extraction:

• Permanent loss of the natural tooth

• Risk of shifting teeth

• May need future dental work to replace the missing tooth

What About the Pain?

Abscessed teeth can cause intense pain. Dentists usually suggest over-the-counter pain relievers, but for moderate to severe pain, stronger medicine may be needed.

Using Aspadol for Pain Relief

Aspadol 100mg (Tapentadol) is a prescription painkiller that helps manage strong pain when other medicines are not enough. It works by blocking pain signals in the brain.

Dentists may recommend Aspadol for short-term use if:

• You have severe abscess pain before treatment

• Pain remains after a tooth extraction

• You’re recovering from root canal surgery

 Important: Aspadol is a strong medicine and should only be taken under medical advice. It’s not a long-term solution.

Aftercare for Abscessed Tooth Treatment

Whether you get a root canal or extraction, proper care is needed for healing.

Root Canal Aftercare:

• Avoid chewing on the treated side until the crown is placed

• Take medications as directed

• Brush and floss as usual

• Visit your dentist for follow-ups

Extraction Aftercare:

• Bite down gently on gauze to stop bleeding

• Avoid smoking or using straws for 24 hours

• Eat soft foods for a few days

• Keep the area clean to prevent dry socket

How to Prevent Abscessed Teeth

Prevention is better than treatment. You can avoid most dental abscesses by:

• Brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Flossing daily

• Limiting sugary foods and drinks

• Seeing your dentist every 6 months

• Treating cavities or cracked teeth early

Final Thoughts

Abscessed teeth are serious and should never be ignored. If caught early, a dentist may save the tooth with a root canal. If the tooth is too damaged, extraction may be the safer option. Pain relief is important during the healing process, and for some people, Aspadol may be prescribed under a doctor’s care.

If you’re in the United States and facing tooth pain that won’t go away, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. The earlier you get treated, the better your chances of saving your tooth and avoiding serious infection.