The ER can manage the medical symptoms of a tooth infection or abscess by prescribing antibiotics and pain medication, but it cannot treat the infection itself. Emergency rooms don't have the tools or equipment and aren't trained to perform root canals or extractions. You may get temporary relief, but you still need to see a dentist to treat the source of infection.
What Happens at the ER
If you go to the emergency room with a dental abscess, they'll likely prescribe antibiotics to slow the spread of infection and relieve the pain. If you're experiencing severe swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, or a high fever, the ER is the right place to go for immediate medical care.
The problem is that’s not the end of your pain. The infection will return because the underlying problem—an infected tooth—hasn't been addressed.
What an Emergency Dentist Can Do
Dr. Josh can diagnose the abscess with digital x-rays, drain the infection if needed, and perform the necessary treatment, whether that's a root canal or extraction, to eliminate the source of infection entirely. This provides lasting relief, not just a temporary fix.
Smiles by Dr. Josh is available Monday through Friday until 7:00 PM for same-day emergency appointments, and Dr. Josh is reachable evenings and weekends because dental pain doesn’t wait for business hours.
If you're dealing with tooth pain, swelling, or a visible abscess in Fort Lauderdale, call Smiles by Dr. Josh first, even on weekends, to get proper treatment and solve the problem.