Tooth Extractions – Parker North, CO
Tooth Extractions Provide Pain Relief and Protect Oral Health
As an experienced restorative dentist in Parker, Dr. Rodney Allen always seeks to help his patients preserve their complete smile for a lifetime. However, it is sometimes necessary to remove one or more teeth to protect a patient’s oral health and overall well-being. Why might you need to undergo a tooth extraction, and what can you expect during the procedure? Read on to discover the answers to these important questions about tooth extractions in Parker, CO.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
There are a number of reasons why you may need to have one or more teeth extracted:
- A tooth is suffering from a severe infection.
- A tooth is so badly broken that a restoration, such as a crown, would not be able to adequately restore its strength and function.
- There is overcrowding in the mouth, and it is necessary to remove a tooth in order to make room for orthodontic treatment.
- The third molars, otherwise known as the wisdom teeth, are posing a threat to your oral health, or you wish to get them removed as a precautionary measure.
Dr. Allen will only recommend a tooth extraction if he truly believes it is the best course of action. Often, alternative treatments (such as root canal therapy) are able to save a suffering tooth. If it is necessary to remove a tooth, you may later be able to replace it with a fixed bridge or dental implant.
The Tooth Extraction Process
There are two types of tooth extractions:
A simple extraction is used for teeth that have fully erupted from the gum line. During the procedure, Dr. Allen numbs the tooth and the area around it. Then, he gently applies force to break the ligaments that attach the tooth to the jawbone. Once the ligaments are broken, he pulls the tooth out of the mouth.
A surgical or complex extraction is used for teeth that have not fully erupted from the gum line, as is often the case with wisdom teeth. Local anesthesia, along with sedation, will help you relax throughout the procedure; you should not feel any significant discomfort. Dr. Allen creates an incision in the gums to reveal the tooth, then extracts it with as little impact to the surrounding tissue as possible. Sometimes, he must break a tooth into pieces in order to facilitate removal.
Recovering from a Tooth Extraction
The soft tissue at a tooth extraction site heals fairly quickly; much of the swelling and soreness should go away within a few days to a week. You can avoid complications by eating soft foods, not smoking, and not using straws for a few days after the procedure. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery period, reach out to our team so we can give you the expert guidance you need to have a smooth journey back to a healthy smile.
Do you believe you may need a tooth extraction in Parker? Contact our dental office to ask questions about this procedure or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Allen.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Tooth extractions in Parker don't have to be stressful. Dr. Rodney L. Allen will take the time to explain everything, so you know exactly what to expect on the road ahead. He will address any concerns to calm your nerves. While you wait for your consultation, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about tooth extractions.
Can I Leave the Empty Space After a Tooth Extraction?
Every tooth is important for a healthy, beautiful smile. Except for wisdom teeth or those removed for orthodontics, it's best to have your tooth replaced. Your adjacent teeth won't have sufficient support, which will cause them to shift over time. As they move from position, you'll have an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Dr. Allen will review your replacement options at your consultation, like a dental implant or bridge.
Can I Smoke After Getting a Tooth Removed?
Smoking can increase your risk of complications after an extraction because it affects your body's ability to heal and fight infections. Tobacco can delay healing and cause dry socket, a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is lost too soon. It's best to avoid smoking for at least 5 days after your tooth is removed. Ideally, you shouldn't smoke for 2 weeks to allow your mouth to heal.
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Your dentist in Parker will keep your comfort a priority. A local numbing agent or a sedative will be used to block any pain. You may feel pressure, but you won't have any outright pain. Although you won't feel anything during the procedure, you can expect your mouth to be sore for a few days after the effects of any sedatives or anesthetics dissipate. You can manage it with a prescribed or OTC pain reliever. Apply a cold compress to reduce pain, inflammation, and bruising. Eat soft foods until any tenderness improves. If your pain suddenly worsens or doesn't get better, contact our office right away.
What’s the Difference Between Tooth Extraction and Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Wisdom tooth removal can be more invasive than a standard tooth extraction. Wisdom teeth can be partially or fully hidden below the gum tissue. As a result, an incision is needed to expose the tooth before it can be taken out. Most other teeth require a simple extraction using forceps. Recovering from a simple extraction is often shorter than with surgical removal because it's less invasive. Dr. Allen will examine your mouth to determine which procedure will be necessary.