Tooth Removal
A tooth extraction obviously doesn’t sound like a fun time, but it’s not something you should be scared of. It’s a routine, low-risk procedure that is relatively painless.
In many cases, a simple extraction can be handled by a dentist, but in some cases, we will refer you to an oral surgeon. The recovery time is short and the extraction site typically doesn’t take long to heal.
Why Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
Usually, a tooth extraction is necessary when you need to make room in your mouth for proper teeth alignment. In other cases, decayed or damaged teeth need to be removed to relieve pain and prevent infection.
Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common tooth extraction procedures. Impacted wisdom teeth can prevent your teeth from growing in normally. This procedure is typically handled by an experienced oral surgeon.
Tooth Extraction: A Simple Process
An extraction is a fairly quick process and usually follows these steps:
- After taking X-rays, your dentist or oral surgeon will review them with you and talk through the procedure.
- The dentist will apply a local numbing agent for the tooth, gum & bone.
- The dentist will remove the tooth using applied pressure. Throughout the actual extraction, you should feel only pressure, not pain.
What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?
After your extraction, your dentist will send you home with proper care instructions. You may need to temporarily cover the extraction site with gauze. In some cases, you will be prescribed medication to help with pain relief. In a matter of weeks, the gums should fully heal. At that point, you may decide to replace the missing tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture. Learn more about our cosmetic and restorative options.
Schedule a Tooth Extraction Consultation
Premier Dental Center New Braunfels is a modern office in New Braunfels. If you think you may need a tooth extraction or are experiencing dental pain, reach out to us and we can assess your case. In some cases, we may decide to refer you out to an oral surgeon. Contact us today!