Dental Extractions
Irreparable Tooth Damage | Periodontal Disease | Routine Extractions | Surgical Extractions | Gentle Care
At Sensible Dentistry of Canton, we never spare any effort to save a damaged or infected tooth and restore it to its health and function. However, extracting a tooth may be your best or only option, at times, to restore your healthy smile. If you require a dental extraction, you can count on Dr. Evans and her team for world-class, gentle care.
Do You Need a Dental Extraction?
The following is a look at some of the main reasons you may need to have a tooth extracted:
- Severe Tooth Decay: Tooth decay, left untreated, can infect the tooth pulp, resulting in a root canal infection requiring prompt treatment. If treatment is still not provided, the damage can become so severe that saving the tooth is no longer an option.
- Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that often causes gum recession leaving the tooth roots vulnerable to harmful oral bacteria. As the infection continues to advance, it breaks down the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, leading to loose teeth, tooth loss, and in some cases, the need for extraction.
- Tooth Fracture: Tooth fractures can occur due to accidents, injuries, or biting down on hard foods. A tooth that is fractured in a way that it cannot be repaired, especially if a fracture extends below the gum line, extracting it may be our only viable option.
- Teeth Overcrowding: Teeth crowding occurs when the jaw cannot accommodate all the incoming teeth. Selective tooth extractions can help correct overcrowding by creating the space needed to allow braces or other orthodontic devices to align the remaining teeth.
What Can You Expect During a Tooth Extraction?
While hearing you require a tooth extraction may sound scary, modern dentistry has made the routine procedure virtually painless. Extractions are performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth. So even though you may feel some pressure, there should not be any pain.
There are two types of tooth extractions: routine and surgical. A routine extraction involves the removal of a tooth that’s visible above the gum line and easily accessible. A surgical extraction, on the other hand, is a more involved procedure needed to remove a tooth that is weak, broken, or not fully erupted.
Replacing Extracted Teeth
Leaving a gap in your smile is far more than a cosmetic concern. The neighboring teeth may shift toward the gap, leading to crooked teeth, problems with the bite, and a host of oral health complications. Depending on the location of the extracted tooth, Dr. Evans may recommend a tooth replacement solution, such as a dental implant, fixed bridge, or partial denture. Our goal is to safeguard your oral health and restore your confident smile.
Post-Extraction Instructions
We will provide you with a list of post-extraction instructions. Make sure to follow them closely to promote healing and ensure a speedy recovery.
You will need to eat soft foods for the first 24 hours. Make sure to keep the extraction site clean by swishing very gently with an antimicrobial mouthwash two to three times a day. Avoid brushing until your instructions state it is safe to do so. Brush and floss all the other areas as you normally would.
You’ll want to avoid drinking through a straw, smoking, spitting, or rinsing vigorously for a few days. These activities can dislodge the blood clot forming in the extracted tooth’s socket, leading to a painful complication known as dry socket. If you have increased pain in the extraction site or if you have any concerns during the healing period, make sure to let us know.
Tooth Extractions Near Me
If you have a damaged or painful tooth, contact Sensible Dentistry of Canton, TX. Dr. Evans will do everything possible to save the damaged tooth. If, however, extraction is your best option, you can expect state-of-the-art, compassionate care. Contact our office at 903-807-0475 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!