Tooth Extractions
A Safe Procedure
If you have never gotten a tooth extracted before it may seem like a frightening experience. It’s important to note that it’s a routine, low-risk, procedure. The recovery after a tooth extraction is usually very simple.
Lone Tree Modern Dental & Orthodontics can perform some extractions in our office, but we may refer you to an oral surgeon in some situations.
Why Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
The most common extraction procedure a patient undergoes is wisdom teeth removal and it is typically handled by an oral surgeon. Wisdom teeth that are impacted can stop your teeth from growing in correctly.
A dentist will recommend a tooth extraction to make room in the mouth for proper tooth alignment. Another reason for a tooth extraction procedure is when the tooth is badly damaged or decayed. An extraction will prevent infection and relieve pain.
What Is The Tooth Extraction Process?
A tooth extraction procedure is a quick process that should only take a few minutes. The process normally looks like this:
- After taking x-rays, the dentist or oral surgeon will review them with you and talk through the extraction process.
- The dentist will use a local numbing agent for the tooth, gum, and bone.
- Throughout the extraction, you should only feel pressure, not pain.
- In most cases, the dentist can remove the tooth using applied pressure, rather than surgical intervention.
What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?
Once the procedure is over, your dentist will send you home with instructions for properly caring for the extraction site in the hours and days following. Some patients may need to cover the area with gauze.
For patients who are experiencing pain after the extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe medicine to give some relief in the days following the procedure. The gums should fully heal in a matter of weeks, as long as the site is kept clean. Once healed, you may be interested in replacing the missing tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture.
Schedule a Tooth Extraction Consultation
Lone Tree Modern Dental & Orthodontics is a modern office located in Lone Tree, Colorado. If you think you might need a tooth extracted or are experiencing dental pain, reach out to us and we can assess your case. Depending on your case, we may refer you out to an oral surgeon. Contact us today!