When do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
There are lots of reasons you might need a tooth extraction. Sometimes it is required when younger kids and teenagers have trouble losing all their baby teeth on their own. However, adults can require tooth extractions as well. We typically recommend Bryan College Station Tooth Extractions only when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, and we cannot repair it. We advise this course of action when you have the following:
- Tooth Decay
- Tooth Damage
- Trauma
- Periodontal Disease
- Tooth Misalignment
- Crowded Teeth
- Impacted Teeth
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A dental extraction is a common practice of removing a tooth from its socket. We remove the crown, the visible portion of the tooth, and the tooth roots. We generally remove teeth that have erupted through simple extraction, which involves using specialized tools to lift or pull the tooth from its socket. The extracted tooth can later be replaced by a dental implant or bridge if necessary.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Tooth That Needs Extraction?
Some symptoms that may indicate that you need a tooth extraction include severe tooth pain, visible cracks or chips in the tooth, and persistent sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rahimi-Thornton as soon as possible to discuss your treatment options. In some cases, you can avoid tooth extraction if we can catch the damage early enough, and we can repair the tooth with a filling or crown. However, an extraction may be the only option if the tooth is too severely damaged.
What is the Tooth Extraction Process?
When you sit in the dentist’s chair for your extraction procedure, Dr. Rahimi-Thornton will begin with a local anesthetic. Once you are numb, she will use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth, exposing the ligament that holds it into place. Dr. Rahimi-Thornton may rock the tooth back and forth to create more room in the socket. Then, a tool called forceps, which looks like tweezers, will be used to pull the tooth. Then, she will pack the area with gauze.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Expect to feel some discomfort after the tooth extraction, as it is a natural and necessary part of the healing process. Applying ice to the affected area will help minimize the swelling. After the swelling goes down, if your jaw remains stiff, apply warm compresses to soothe the pain.
You must be cautious when caring for the area in the first few days following the procedure and when eating. Pick simple-to-chew, softer foods first, then gradually introduce harder foods. Don’t smoke, and avoid using straws. When brushing close to the extraction site, use the utmost gentleness.
Bryan-College Station Tooth Extractions Near Me
Patients often fear having a tooth extracted, but modern anesthetic techniques make the procedure far more comfortable than you might imagine. We will perform the procedure with the utmost care and provide helpful aftercare instructions to ensure you have a comfortable and speedy recovery.
If you think you might need a tooth extraction, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
