When you need to have a tooth extracted, you want to know that the procedure can be performed easily and comfortably by a dentist you trust.
At Ai Family Dental, we will discuss your needs and make sure that you are feeling safe and relaxed both before and after your extraction. We’ll also provide you with all the information you need to have a fast and simple recovery.
✱ Advanced periodontal disease that has loosened the tooth roots
✱ Extra teeth or baby teeth that impede adult teeth
✱ Preparing a patient for orthodontic treatment
✱ Removing a fractured or malformed tooth
✱ Severe tooth decay which cannot be remedied with root canal therapy
As a precaution, the dentist will first take X-rays of the tooth or teeth in question, to help plan the procedure. After preparing a method of extraction, you will be given a local anesthetic that will prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure. Next, the dentist will use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth and loosen ligaments and gum tissue around the base of the tooth. Finally, the dentist will use a pair of forceps, to gently rock the tooth back and forth until it breaks free of the ligaments holding it in the gum tissue. Occasionally, a stubborn tooth will resist the dentist’s soft tug, refusing to come out. In these and more complex cases, the tooth may need to be broken up into smaller pieces for removal. Once removed, we will pack gauze into the socket and have you place pressure on the area by biting down. If necessary, the dentist will place stitches to close the socket. If you are sick the week prior to your scheduled extraction or on the day of, please contact our office, as alternative arrangements may need to be made. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
One of the most common questions we get from our patients is what happens during a tooth extraction. Teeth extractions are a dental procedure that removes not only the tooth but the root of the tooth as well. The tooth root is the portion of the tooth below the gum line and the tooth crown is the area of the tooth above the gum line. During a tooth extraction, the entire tooth is removed either to help correct misalignment, adult teeth not growing in, or to deal with a damaged tooth that cannot be repaired.
What’s The Difference Between Tooth Extraction & Wisdom Tooth Surgery?
Generally speaking, wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure. This is because the wisdom teeth are often not fully through the gum line, or are impacted. A regular tooth can be “pulled” or extracted without requiring surgery. A surgical extraction is required when the wisdom teeth are underneath the gumline but still causing problems for your alignment or jawline.
What To Expect Afterward?
After the tooth has been removed, the extraction site will be closed. Afterward, a friend or family member will need to take you home if sedation was used for the extraction. In the following few days, rest is suggested, and you should avoid strenuous activities. Additionally, you should avoid using straws and eat a soft-food diet. A follow-up appointment will be necessary to remove the sutures and ensure that everything is healing correctly.
Will It Hurt?
The short answer is, yes. A local anesthetic will be administered around the tooth being removed. Sedation dentistry can also be useful for those who are uneasy about dental procedures. Our goal is always to have you feeling comfortable in our office for a positive experience.
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(972) 248-9955