The last thing you probably want, when it comes to your mouth, is to have a tooth extracted. It often feels like a major point of maintaining good oral hygiene is to keep your smile healthy and intact. However, there are times when removing a tooth is the best course of action for your health. The decision to move forward with extraction can only be made by you and your Garland, TX dentist, but this article will explain when a tooth removal is often necessary.
Factors That Warrant A Tooth Extraction
Having a tooth removed might seem intimidating, but an extraction could be necessary for your overall health. There a variety of situations in which an extraction is recommended. For instance, if you have a loose tooth because of gum disease, removal could be the right choice. Patients with compromised immune symptoms can sometimes benefit from the procedure as well, as their teeth sometimes become infected. Other times, extraction is necessary when restorative dentistry cannot save a severely decayed tooth. Of course, other factors might necessitate removal, but these are some of the more common ones.
How To Take Care Of It Afterwards
If you do need a tooth removed, it is essential to properly care for your mouth in the following weeks. Your dentist, or the oral surgeon they recommend, will provide comprehensive instructions that must be followed. For roughly a week after the procedure, you’ll want to minimize pain and risk of infection by taking the prescribed pain relievers and antibiotics. You will need to keep your mouth clean by rinsing it with warm salt water and changing the gauze regularly. Rest is key in the healing process as well; do not exert yourself. Take this opportunity to relax. Additionally, make sure you stick to soft foods so you minimize the chance of irritating the area. Finally, don’t smoke or drink alcohol during this healing period. If you follow the care techniques provided by your dentist, your recovery time should be minimal and headache-free.
Replacement Teeth
Once you have your tooth extracted, you will likely want something to replace it. Your dentist can work with you to find the right dental prosthetic to fit your specific needs. These can include bridges, dentures, and implants. The process of getting replacement teeth is typically quite easy and more common than you might think, so you can rest easy knowing that your smile will be back to where you want it soon.
Learn More About Tooth Extraction
To learn more about this procedure and to see if it right for you, schedule a consultation today by contacting Mai Dentistry in Garland, TX at (972)-530-0552. You can also find our practice at 6850 N Shiloh Rd, Suite C Garland, TX 75044. We look forward to hearing from you and working with you to achieve your healthiest smile.