Tooth Extraction
Don’t Be Afraid of a Tooth Extraction
Although tooth extractions seem scary, it’s important to know that it is a routine, low-risk procedure that is painless when performed by an experienced dentist or oral surgeon. The recovery after a tooth extraction is usually very simple.
Appletree Dental can handle some extractions in our office, but we may refer you to an oral surgeon in some situations.
Reasons For a Tooth Extraction
Patients often experience tooth extractions when they get their wisdom teeth removed. Sometimes patients will need an extraction because they have impacted teeth or crowding, which is the usual case with wisdom teeth.
There are also many cases when a dentist will recommend tooth extraction because of severe tooth decay. In these cases, an extraction will prevent infection and relieve discomfort.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
Most times, the tooth extraction process is a very straightforward procedure that only takes a few minutes and can be completed by either an experienced dentist or oral surgeon.
- The dentist or oral surgeon will have taken x-rays of teeth and will go over the process with you.
- The dentist will use a local numbing agent for the tooth, gum, and bone.
- As the extraction begins, you should feel only pressure, not pain.
- In most cases, the dentist will remove the tooth using only applied pressure, rather than using surgical intervention.
The Tooth Extraction Recovery Process
Your dentist will give you instructions to help you know how to properly care for the extraction site in the hours and days following tooth removal. These instructions usually include changing out gauze to help minimize bleeding.
Lots of dentists and oral surgeons may prescribe you medicine to give you some relief of pain in the few following days of 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 in Thornton
If you are located in Thornton, CO, and are feeling dental pain or think you may need an extraction, don’t hesitate to contact Appletree Dental. We can get you set up with a consultation to assess your unique case. Depending on the situation, there is a possibility we may refer you to an oral surgeon. To set up an appointment, contact us today!