What is the Emergency Treatment for a Tooth Infection?

A tooth abscess is a dental emergency that requires immediate professional intervention to prevent the infection from spreading to your jaw, neck, or bloodstream. While you may seek temporary relief at home, professional treatment is the only way to resolve the underlying bacterial infection.

Immediate Treatment Options

If you have a tooth infection, we typically use one of the following methods to eliminate the source of the bacteria:

• Root Canal Therapy: This is the preferred method for restorable teeth. We remove the infected pulp from the canals and seal the tooth to preserve your natural smile.
• Tooth Extraction: If the tooth is fractured or decayed beyond repair, we may need to remove it entirely to halt the infection.
• Professional Drainage: We must drain the pus pocket to relieve pressure and stop the local spread of the abscess.
• Antibiotics: We may prescribe antibiotics if the infection has spread or caused significant swelling, though these are used to support dental procedures rather than replace them.

When to Seek Emergency Care

You should contact us immediately or visit an emergency room if you experience any of the following dental abscess emergency signs:

• A fever over 101°F (38.3°C).
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Facial or gum swelling that spreads to your neck, eye, or jaw.
• Severe, throbbing pain that prevents sleep and does not respond to medication.

We care about your smile and provide a judgement free space for all emergency needs. While a warm salt water rinse can offer minor temporary comfort, it cannot cure an abscess. Please Book Appointment at our New Westminster clinic as soon as you notice persistent pain or swelling.

• Tooth Abscess Symptoms and Treatment: 2026 Complete Guide