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How can I treat an infected tooth without a root canal?

I have a tooth infection and want to treat it. How can I treat an infected tooth without a root canal?

12 Answers

DentistDentist
The infection would usually be coming from within the tooth or its surroundings. unless you treat the source of infection, you cannot completely get rid of it. If you did not want to do a root canal, the only other way to clear the infection will be by extracting the tooth. Antibiotics may help suppress the bacteria for limited time only and will not help in eliminating the infection completely.
Once a tooth becomes infected to the nerve it is no longer a living viable tooth. The only definitive options include root canal treatment or extraction. If you are looking to keep your tooth and your dentist is confident it can be fixed, then a root canal is a great proven option.
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If the decay infected the nerve, the only 2 solutions are either root canal therapy or extraction.
It depends on the condition of the tooth. It cannot be diagnosed without a x-ray. Please visit your dentist to get the right treatment. Infected tooth needs a Root canal or extraction usually.
If a tooth is infected and you do not want to get a root canal the other option is to take it out and replace it with an implant.
You have to get rid of the source of infection. Antibiotics are prescribed with infection, but will not permanently get rid of the infection and will reoccur. Plus just antibiotics will create antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The other option besides a root canal is extraction. You may be able to get an implant later. A bride may also be an option if there is a tooth in front and behind the infected tooth. Ask your dentist about all of your options so that you can make an informed decision.
You cannot. An infection needs to be properly treated. Antibiotics will only help subdue symptoms for a short time until the tooth is treated. In some cases, if the infection is large the tooth may need to be removed.

Best regards,

John Zalesky, DMD, MBS, FICOI
Colorado AGD President
I’m sorry you’re having an issue with your tooth! If the tooth is infected, the alternative is to remove the tooth and replace it with a dental implant or a bridge. Best of luck!
The only treatment for an infected tooth is via root canal or extracting the tooth and replace it with an implant, bridge, etc.
Infections could potentially be treated with antibiotics, periodontal treatment, or a combination of both. If the nerve of the tooth is truly infected to the point of necrosis or irreversible pulpitis, the only treatment options are a root canal or extraction.
If you believe your tooth has an infection, it is important to see a dental professional as soon as possible. A tooth infection can lead to serious conditions such as an abscess or acute sinusitis. It is important a dental professional perform a thorough examination of the infected tooth to determine if the infection is coming from the tooth itself, or the surrounding tissues such as the gums or sinus. It is rare but possible the swelling can be neoplastic as well, which could necessitate a biopsy, surgery, or other modalities of intervention to treat.
If the infection is coming from the tooth, there are two predictable options for treatment: one option is to disinfect the inside of the tooth where the bacteria are located - this is known as a root canal. The other option is to remove the tooth entirely, known as an extraction. In certain circumstances, a medicine may be placed inside the tooth after removing the cavity to alleviate symptoms temporarily; however, the tooth will still need to have a root canal or extraction as this is not a permanent solution.
If the nerve inside the tooth is infected, you need either a root canal or an extraction.