A tooth extraction is a procedure that we recommend when a tooth can no longer be treated with a crown or dental bonding procedure. At this stage, removal helps prevent the onset of major oral health complications. In today’s blog, your Garland, TX, dentist will explain what to expect from this procedure.
Prescribing a Tooth Extraction
When do we recommend a tooth be removed completely? Essentially, in any situation in which staying in place threatens surrounding teeth or the overall oral health. For example, a tooth too decayed or infected to be treated with a crown or root canal could spread infection. A tooth too damaged for a crown placement is also at risk for developing infection and pain. If we need to make room for orthodontic treatment, we may take one out, and removal is often necessary for teeth loosened by periodontitis. If you have wisdom teeth poised to erupt, we may take them out prior to eruption. Wisdom teeth are up to four additional molars that arrive in our late teens and early 20s. Without removal, they could cause painful impaction, infection, misalignment, and could damage teeth as well.
The Removal Process
To begin, we will take detailed images with digital x-rays and intraoral cameras. We then plan the treatment with precision and accuracy to avoid sinus cavities or nerve tissues. A local anesthetic and sedation will then be administered to ensure you remain calm and comfortable. Next, we gently remove the tooth with a pair for forceps, and for wisdom teeth we may need to open the gums above them. Once we take the tooth out, we will take steps to preserve the extraction site to prevent infection and if necessary, ensure the smile is ready for dental implant placement.
Aftercare for Your Smile
A friend or family member will bring you home, and you will need to take any prescribed painkillers or antibiotics. For the first 24 hours, rinse your mouth with warm salt water after you eat, rest and avoid strenuous activity, and change gauze pads before they’re soaked. Don’t prod the site with your tongue, avoid nicotine, and eat soft foods for the first day or two. While you still need to brush and floss, avoid mouthwash for a bit. We will examine your smile in a follow-up visit! If you have any questions about the extraction process, then contact our team today! We would love to help you start 2022 with a healthier smile.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT ORAL SURGERY?
If you have a tooth that is severely damaged or aching, then please 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.
