I just want to ask.. my tooth has been decaying for around 7 years and now the crown already chipped into two. Despite this, it causes me no pain except when some food gets in to the cavity.. my gum swelled last month so I decided to visit the dentist just today. When I got to the dentist for tooth extraction, he did not opt for tooth extraction because I didn't feel any pain when he tapped it; instead he made me take 500 mg antibiotic for 5 days. He told me I may have gum infection.. my question is "is my tooth still viable for restoration? or is tooth extraction the only solution to my case?" please, I need to know.. this is the first time I got tooth decay.. thank you..

What did the dentist say when you asked these questions?

What did the dentist say when you asked these questions?
He said he'll check the tooth after my medication . As of now, I have been mouthwashing with brine solution to help my gums heal. My gums just feel great with the brine.

he said he'll check the tooth after my medication . as of now, i have been mouthwashing with brine solution to help my gums heal. my gums just feel great with the brine.

Then, you will have your answers after you finish this course of treatment.

With infection in your mouth dentist will not extract. He wants to clear up the infection first. He was tapping on your tooth to see if the root is affected. You would have felt pain when he tapped.