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Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio specializes in treating infected teeth. These infections may be accompanied by an abscess, which is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infections. Periapical abscesses form at the tip of the tooth’s root, while periodontal abscesses develop in the gums. Our endodontists, Dr. Rick Schwartz, Dr. Rick Davis, and Dr. Zac Liang, commonly treat infections with root canal therapy. They also advise on ways to ease the pain associated with infected teeth.
Immediately contact our office in the Stone Oak area of San Antonio, Texas, if you suspect your tooth is infected. Our specialists may suggest a salt water rinse, baking soda paste, cold compress, and other home remedies to relieve pain immediately. These are generally temporary “fixes” for symptom relief. They are not a substitute for effective therapies to treat the underlying cause of pain.
Occasionally, one dose of an antibiotic may be recommended before treatment as a “premedication.” Appropriate candidates for this approach may have diabetes, heart problems, immune system dysfunction, and other comorbidities. Antibiotics may also be prescribed for individuals with obvious infections and fever, and especially if the infection has spread to other parts of the face and jaw. Recommendations are unique for every patient based on a thorough evaluation of your medical history and overall health.
Antibiotics are only an adjunctive treatment and not a substitute for root canal treatment. The purpose of root canal treatment and surgical endodontic procedures is to eliminate the source of the infection from inside the tooth and thereby relieve sensitivity, pain, swelling, and other symptoms. Once the source of the infection is eliminated, your body will eliminate the infection outside the tooth and allow the bone and gums to heal. The tooth is preserved, and extractions are avoided.
Schedule an appointment at Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio today. Call our San Antonio, TX office at (210) 405-0473.