Dr. Mersha may decide that a tooth extraction is the most effective way to save your smile. Your tooth may need extraction due to decay, periodontal disease, or physical trauma. An overcrowded or crooked smile could also be a cause for tooth removal.
Our conservative dentists will discuss all of your options with you and do their best to help you avoid extraction wherever possible. However, extraction and replacement can be a great choice in many situations. When a tooth is severely infected, a tooth extraction may be the best way to preserve the health and appearance of the rest of your smile.
What to Expect from a Tooth Extraction
What should you expect from a tooth extraction at Discovery Dental? When you come in for your procedure, you can expect a positive environment and gentle care. The tooth extraction process includes just three steps:
Your dentist will numb the tooth and the area around it with a local anesthetic. You may feel some pressure during your tooth removal, but you should not feel any pain.
Your dental professional will wiggle the tooth to widen the socket to promote a comfortable removal. If the socket cannot be properly expanded, the tooth will be separated into small sections.
The tooth will be carefully removed, and then your procedure will be complete!
Care after Tooth Removal
After your tooth removal, you should bite down on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes to ensure that a blood clot forms. For the next 72 hours, do not:
- Rinse or mouthwash vigorously
- Suck on straws
- Smoke
- Drink alcohol
- Brush teeth at the extraction site
- Participate in strenuous exercise
- Eat hard or crumbly foods.
The goal is to stop the bleeding and swelling as quickly as possible. If you feel any discomfort, take prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers. Place an ice pack on the area near the extraction to reduce swelling.
Within a few days, you should be able to resume all of your normal activities without any pain. Feel free to call us at anytime during your healing process with questions or concerns. As soon as your extraction is complete, or even before the procedure, we will discuss your tooth replacement options.
Let Us Help You Today!
Once the affected tooth is removed, you will have a safer and healthier smile! Call us at Discovery Dental today to find out which treatment will be most beneficial for you.