Can you have a tooth extracted when experiencing toothache?

Oct 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, whether tooth extraction can be performed during a toothache depends on the specific condition and underlying cause of the tooth. If experiencing discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. When tooth pain occurs, timely consultation with a dentist is necessary to determine the cause through oral examination and X-rays. Before extraction, patients should honestly inform the dentist about their overall health status. If inflammation needs to be controlled prior to extraction, medications should be taken as prescribed by the doctor.

Generally, whether tooth extraction can be performed during a toothache depends on the specific condition and underlying cause of the tooth. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the tooth pain is caused by pulpitis or non-restorable残idual roots or crowns, and there is no acute inflammatory spread around the tooth, extraction can usually be performed even while the tooth is painful. In such cases, removing the tooth directly eliminates the source of infection, relieves pain, and prevents further progression of inflammation. Normal recovery can be expected with proper postoperative care.

If the tooth pain results from an acute episode of pericoronitis (such as wisdom tooth-related), acute apical periodontitis, or a periodontal abscess, tooth extraction is not recommended during the painful phase. Extracting a tooth during an acute inflammatory phase may lead to the spread of infection, increase the risk of postoperative complications such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, dry socket, and prolonged healing time. It is advisable first to control the inflammation with medication and proceed with extraction only after the inflammation has subsided.

When experiencing tooth pain, prompt dental evaluation is essential to determine the cause through clinical examination and X-rays. Before extraction, patients should fully disclose their medical history to the dentist. If inflammation needs to be controlled first, follow the doctor’s instructions regarding medication and maintain good oral hygiene. After extraction, avoid chewing on the affected side, and refrain from brushing or rinsing the mouth within the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot and impairing healing.

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