Dental emergencies can be painful, stressful, and unexpected. When severe tooth pain, infection, or trauma strikes, many people ask, Will a dentist remove a tooth in an emergency appointment? The short answer is: Yes—if it’s necessary and feasible, most dentists will perform a tooth extraction during an emergency visit.
At Asctorino, we understand that dealing with dental pain is never easy, especially when time is critical. This guide will walk you through what happens during an emergency dental visit, when and why a tooth might be removed, how to prepare, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Whether you’re uninsured, nervous, or unsure what qualifies as an emergency, this article has you covered.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
Emergency dental care is designed to treat urgent oral health issues that cannot wait for a routine appointment.
These situations often involve:
Severe toothache that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain relief
Abscessed or infected tooth, possibly accompanied by swelling, pus, or fever
Knocked-out or loose teeth from trauma
Cracked, broken, or severely decayed tooth causing pain or bleeding
Exposed nerves or sharp fragments inside the mouth
Swelling or pressure that affects speaking or eating
If you’re experiencing extreme pain, bleeding, or signs of infection, you may need immediate attention—and potentially an emergency extraction.
Will the Dentist Pull a Tooth During an Emergency Visit?
In many cases, yes—if the dentist determines that removing the tooth is the best course of action and it’s safe to do so. Here’s how that decision is made:
When a Dentist Will Proceed with Extraction:
The tooth is severely decayed or damaged beyond repair
There is an infection or abscess that poses a risk to surrounding teeth or the jawbone
The tooth is loose due to gum disease or trauma
The patient is in severe, unmanageable pain
No viable restorative options (like root canal therapy or crowns) are available or affordable
There is a risk of infection spreading, especially with compromised immunity
In these cases, emergency tooth removal may provide immediate relief and prevent further health complications.
When a Dentist May Delay Extraction:
The patient has medical conditions (e.g., blood clotting disorders) requiring clearance from a physician
There is extensive facial swelling or severe infection that must be treated with antibiotics first
The procedure requires specialized surgical techniques best handled by an oral surgeon
The patient is not stable due to anxiety, high blood pressure, or lack of anesthesia options
There’s an opportunity to save the tooth through root canal therapy or other restorative treatment
Asctorino encourages patients to be open and honest about their symptoms, health history, and concerns. Your dentist will consider all factors to determine if extraction is appropriate during the emergency visit.
What Happens During an Emergency Dental Appointment?
1. Initial Evaluation
The emergency dentist will examine your mouth, ask about your symptoms, and review your medical and dental history.
2. X-rays
Dental X-rays are typically required to determine the condition of the tooth, the depth of infection or decay, and the health of surrounding bone.
3. Diagnosis and Recommendation
Based on the evaluation, your dentist will explain what’s causing the problem and present treatment options—whether that’s pain relief, antibiotics, root canal, or extraction.
4. Immediate Treatment
If a tooth needs to be pulled and the dentist has the right tools and setup, they may proceed with the extraction during the same appointment. In other cases, they may manage your pain and schedule the procedure for a follow-up visit.
Asctorino reminds patients that emergency appointments are about fast relief, but they also prioritize safety. If your condition requires more complex surgery, the dentist may refer you to a specialist.
How to Prepare for an Emergency Tooth Extraction
Even in a high-stress situation, there are steps you can take to prepare for the possibility of an extraction.
Bring:
Photo ID and insurance card, if applicable
A list of medications you’re currently taking
Medical history information, including allergies and chronic conditions
Payment method (or ask about payment plans before the procedure)
A friend or family member if you’re receiving sedation
Ask About:
Costs upfront (especially if you don’t have insurance)
Type of anesthesia or sedation used during the procedure
Aftercare instructions for pain management and healing
Follow-up visit for checking healing or replacing the tooth later
At Asctorino, we recommend calling the dental office ahead if possible to explain your symptoms and ask what to bring for the appointment.
What to Expect During the Emergency Extraction
The dentist will:
Numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel pain.
Loosen the tooth using dental instruments and gently remove it.
Apply gauze to stop bleeding and allow a clot to form.
Provide post-extraction care instructions.
If it’s a surgical extraction, you may require stitches, bone trimming, or additional anesthesia. This is common for impacted or broken teeth.
The entire procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on complexity.
Aftercare and Recovery Tips
After an emergency extraction, proper aftercare is critical to ensure healing and avoid complications.
Do:
Bite down on gauze for at least 30 minutes
Rest for 24–48 hours and limit physical activity
Use cold compresses to reduce swelling
Take prescribed or recommended pain relievers
Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, or smoothies
Rinse with salt water (after 24 hours) to keep the site clean
Don’t:
Smoke or vape (can delay healing)
Drink through a straw (risk of dry socket)
Eat hard, spicy, or crunchy foods
Touch the area with your fingers or tongue
Most patients feel better within a few days. Full healing usually takes 1–2 weeks, and your dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor progress or discuss tooth replacement options like implants or bridges.
Cost of Emergency Tooth Extraction
Emergency extraction costs vary depending on the type of tooth, the procedure, and whether sedation is used.
| Procedure | Average Cost (No Insurance) |
|---|---|
| Simple Extraction | $100 – $300 |
| Surgical Extraction | $200 – $700 |
| Impacted Tooth Removal | $300 – $1,000+ |
Many emergency dentists offer payment plans or accept dental discount programs to help patients manage the cost.
If you’re uninsured, Asctorino recommends calling ahead and asking about financial assistance, payment plans, or low-cost clinics in your area.
FAQs
1. Will the dentist pull my tooth on the first visit?
If the situation requires it and there are no medical barriers, yes—most dentists can perform an emergency extraction on the same day.
2. Do I need to be referred to an oral surgeon?
Not always. Many general dentists can perform extractions, but you may be referred to an oral surgeon for complex, impacted, or surgical removals.
3. What if I’m scared of the dentist or the procedure?
Let the office know ahead of time. Many dentists offer sedation options or take extra steps to ease anxiety during emergency visits.
4. Can I go to the ER for tooth extraction?
ERs can manage pain or infection but do not perform dental procedures like extractions. Always follow up with a dental provider for treatment.
5. How can I prevent needing an emergency extraction in the future?
Brush and floss daily, attend regular dental checkups, avoid sugary snacks, and seek care early when tooth pain starts.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in severe pain, facing an abscess, or dealing with a badly damaged tooth, emergency dental care may be the solution you need—and yes, a dentist can remove a tooth during an emergency appointment if necessary.
At Asctorino, we believe that no one should suffer from dental pain without help. If you suspect you need an emergency extraction, reach out to a provider immediately.
Fast action can prevent complications, reduce pain, and get you back on the path to better oral health.