Tooth Extractions
The removal of a tooth is sometimes necessary prior to orthodontic treatment or the creation and placement of dentures. Commonly, we extract wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, when they cause concerns. Other times, trauma, gum disease, cracked or broken teeth, and severe tooth decay means that an extraction is the best option for your dental health.
Do you need a tooth removed? Lone Star Smiles is here to help — Dr. Vera offers a safe environment and will make the process as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
Tooth removal is one of the dental procedures that has a bad reputation, and while patients feel pressure during the procedure, there should not be any pain involved. Dentists will usually only recommend the removal, or extraction, of a tooth as a last resort. Extraction of a tooth is typically planned when treatments to restore or repair a tooth would not be sufficient or may not have good long term results.
There are two types of tooth extractions, simple and surgical. A simple extraction is completed simply by applying pressure to loose the tooth. A surgical extraction involves a more technique sensitive approach is often used for broken or impacted teeth. Below are 5 reasons a dentist may recommend or plan a tooth extraction:
Severe tooth decay
Over-crowded teeth or lack of space - usually for at the request of an orthodontist
Impacted or poorly positioned teeth - often wisdom teeth
Broken tooth
Gum disease with tooth mobility or pain
Why Would my Dentist Recommend an Extraction
It is normal to experience some post-op discomfort following tooth removal. Please take all medications as prescribed and following all post-op instructions. Immediately after the procedure, it is recommended that you relax and avoid any strenuous activity for 24-48 hours to allow healing to begin. After that, a patient should be able to return to normal physical activity. The soft tissue will usually fully heal in about 3-4 weeks and the bone will heal within 8-12 weeks.
How Long Does it Take to Heal from an Extraction
Once a tooth has been planned for removal, your dentist can discuss the replacement options with you. Of course, no treatment is always a valid choice! Different ways to replace teeth include partial or full dentures, bridges, or implants. You dentist will discuss what treatment would be best for you based on what tooth was removed and how healthy your overall oral health is to support the different replacement options.