How long does it take an infection to go away after tooth extraction? I am waiting to get a dental implant. My dentist seems anxious to place the implant, but I do not want another infection. I just finished antibiotics last week. Is it too soon to get an implant? Thank you. Lucas from Ft. Lauderdale

Lucas,

Thank you for your question.

The pulp (the living tissue inside) dies whenever you have a tooth infection. The infection can spread to the root tip and into your jawbone.

Does Tooth Infection Remain After Extraction?

Tooth infection does not remain after extraction because the condition goes with the tooth. Your body will quickly get rid of any infection in your jawbone. Also, removing the tooth leaves a drainage opening that prevents the infection from lingering. It is rare for an infection to remain after tooth removal. Your dentist prescribed antibiotics to eliminate any trace of infection.

Infection in wisdom teeth exists between the tooth and the gum. A dentist must remove the infected tissue and the tooth to prevent the disease from spreading. A dentist will prescribe antibiotics if it is more likely to have a lingering infection after wisdom teeth. Still, dentists do not replace wisdom teeth with dental implants, so although a lingering affection is a concern, it is unrelated to dental implants.

You control when you schedule the surgery for implant placement, so you can give it a few weeks. Although it is probably safe to get an implant now, explain to your dentist that you prefer to wait a few weeks before getting an implant. Waiting will not be an issue if your dentist is concerned about your preference and comfort level.

San Antonio prosthodontist and cosmetic dentist Dr. Gilberto Tostado sponsors this post.