Dennis
Dear Dennis,
I am hoping that there has been some kind of miscommunication. Antibiotics do not cure a tooth infection. The most they can do is hold it at bay until you get the actual treatment. The only way to truly get rid of a tooth infection is by removing the infected pulp of the tooth. A dentist who advertises as treating dental emergencies should have known that.
Without one of these treatments, you put yourself of real risk. People still die from tooth infections. There are two types of treatment that actually work for tooth infections. The first, and preferred treatment for a dental infection, is a root canal treatment. This removes the infection while still saving the tooth.
If it is too late to save a tooth, then the next option is to have the tooth extracted. This will mean that you will need to replace the tooth, though. Otherwise, the other teeth will shift or tip into the empty space. This could lead to TMJ disorder, which can be quite painful. If you need to replace a tooth, the best way to do this is with a dental implant.
If this dentist did not talk to you about needing a follow up appointment, then you are not being served well.
About Dental Fear
You are not alone in having issues with going to the dentist. Many patients are nervous at the idea. Some are downright terrified. The good news is that, these days, we have a solution to give patients both anxiety-free and pain-free dental appointments. Not all dentists utilize this option, though. My suggestion is that you look for a sedation dentist.
There are different levels of sedation. Some will just relax you. Others are so strong that you can sleep through your entire appointment. Which you get is up to you. But, those who’ve lived a lifetime with dental anxiety have found that dental sedation completely changed their lives. It will prevent you from only seeing the dentist when you have a dental emergency.
You can finally have the healthy smile you deserve.
This blog is brought to you by West Seneca Dentist Dr. Carl Embury.
