Safe Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions might seem scary, but in reality, they are a routine, low-risk procedure that is relatively painless. You might be familiar with the process if you have gotten your wisdom teeth removed!
Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?
If you don’t have room in your mouth for proper alignment of your teeth, your dentist may recommend an extraction to make space. Another common reason for extraction is you may have a damaged or decayed tooth. Getting an extraction will relieve pain and prevent infection.
The most common reason for tooth extraction is to remove your wisdom teeth, which is a procedure typically handled by an oral surgeon. If your wisdom teeth are impacted it can stop your teeth from growing in correctly and ruin the current alignment of your teeth.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Tooth extractions only take a few minutes and should mostly be pain-free. Most extractions follow these steps:
- You will receive x-rays and then the dentist or oral surgeon will review them with you and walk you 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.
The Recovery
Once you’re done, you will be sent home with instructions to care for the extraction site. You may need to cover the area with gauze.
If needed, the dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe medicine to provide relief in the days following the procedure. The gums should fully heal in just a matter of weeks, as long as the site is clean. After your extraction sites are healed, you might be interested in replacing the missing tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture. Learn more about other cosmetic options.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you are located in Arvada, CO, Standley Lake Family Dental has modern offices along with an experienced staff. If you think you might need a tooth extracted, contact us for a consultation. In certain cases, we may refer out to an oral surgeon.