We at Simon Family Dental believe that your natural teeth should last a lifetime. However, there are times when a damaged or infected tooth cannot be repaired, leaving extraction as the only viable option to maintain your oral health. If you require a dental extraction, you can count on Dr. Simon and his team for gentle, comfortable care.
Why Would You Need to Have a Tooth Extracted?
There are different reasons why you may need to have a tooth removed, including the following:
- Extensive Tooth Decay or Infection: We'll attempt to restore a damaged or infected tooth with a dental filling, crown, or root canal treatment. However, the damage is sometimes beyond repair, leaving extraction our only option.
- Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, erodes the tissues and bones keeping a tooth in place. That can lead to loose teeth, which in most cases cannot be repaired and may need to be removed.
- Orthodontic Treatment: You may need to have one or more of your teeth extracted as a component of an orthodontic treatment plan. That helps make room for the remaining teeth to move into alignment.
- Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgeries today. That's because most people don't have the room to accommodate these third molars leading to problems including overcrowding, impaction, decay, and infection.
What Can You Expect?
There are two main types of dental extractions: simple and surgical. Simple extractions are more common and are required to remove teeth that are fully erupted and visible above the gum surface. Surgical extractions are less typical and are needed to remove weak, broken, or impacted teeth.
If you need to have a tooth extracted, it's a much easier process than in the past. Advances in dental technology, local anesthetics, and sedation dentistry options result in virtually painless tooth extractions.
What Happens After Tooth Extraction?
You may experience mild to moderate tenderness and bleeding for the first day, but it should start improving soon after. Dr. Simon will provide post-operative instructions for caring for the extraction site at home. He'll also provide pain medication for use as needed.
After removing the tooth, a blood clot will form over the socket. If the clot is dislodged or disturbed during the healing process, you may develop a very painful condition known as dry socket. To prevent that outcome, we recommend avoiding smoking, rinsing vigorously, spitting forcefully, or drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours after tooth extraction.
Most people report minimal discomfort during or after having a tooth extracted. However, if you notice increased pain or swelling or have any concerns, make sure to contact our office.
Next Steps
Leaving a gap in your smile can lead to several problems and complications. The remaining teeth may shift out of alignment, leading to crooked teeth, problems with the bite, difficulty chewing, and jaw joint pain. Depending on the location of the extracted tooth, we may recommend a tooth replacement option, such as a dental implant or bridge. Dr. Simon will evaluate your unique needs to provide you with the best treatment plan.
Tooth Extractions Near Me in Tyler, TX
Contact Simon Family Dental to learn more about our gentle and safe tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removals. Dr. Simon and his team will spare no effort to ensure you are comfortable throughout any treatment. We invite you to call our office at 903-213-9799 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!