Tooth Extraction
If you are experiencing tooth pain, there is a good chance that you may need to have a tooth extraction. While this can be a daunting prospect, our dental professionals at Moore Dental (Carthage) and Moore Dental Arts (Flowood) are here to help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We'll work with you every step of the way to ensure that your experience is positive and that you walk away with a beautiful smile.
What Is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from its socket. This can be done for various reasons, including tooth decay, infection, or crowding. It is typically a safe and relatively painless procedure performed by a qualified dentist.
What To Expect
If you are scheduled for tooth extraction, you can expect the following:
- A consultation with our dentist to discuss the procedure and determine if a tooth extraction is the best course of action
- The administration of local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth to be extracted
- The removal of the tooth using special instruments
- The application of pressure to the wound to help stop the bleeding
- A follow-up appointment to ensure the wound is healing properly
Reasons Why You Need a Tooth Extraction
There are several reasons why you may need to have a tooth extraction:
- The tooth has developed severe decay and is unable to be restored with a filling or crown
- Crowding of the teeth
- The inability of baby teeth to fall out as they should, leading to overcrowding in the mouth.
- Malposition of teeth
- Chronic infection in a tooth or in the surrounding gums or supporting bone
- A severely cracked or damaged tooth that is likely to break
What Steps Are Involved?
If you need a tooth extracted, your dentist will likely take the following steps:
1. Apply an anesthetic to the area around the tooth to be extracted.
2. Remove any debris or calculus from around the tooth.
3. Create an incision in the gum tissue over the tooth.
4. Extract the tooth.
5. Apply pressure to the area to control any bleeding.
6. Place a bandage over the area.
7. Instruct you on how to care for the area post-extraction.
Aftercare and What To Do
After your procedure, you will experience some pain and swelling in the area around your tooth, but this can be primarily alleviated with medication. You should also expect some bleeding when brushing or flossing after tooth extraction; however, notify our dentist immediately if you notice excessive blood loss (bleeding that lasts longer than an hour).
After the extraction, it is essential to keep your mouth clean and avoid consuming anything too chewy or difficult to chew. Your dentist may also recommend that you take antibiotics post-procedure. While your tooth is removed, the jawbone remains intact and will continue to function normally for chewing and speaking. The gums will heal in a few days, and the stitches will be removed within a week after your procedure.
Why Should You Choose Moore Dental?
We are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care. Our team of specialists has years of experience in tooth extraction in Carthage and Flowood, MS, and will ensure that you are comfortable and informed throughout the entire process.
At Moore Dental, we understand that tooth extraction can be a nerve-wracking experience. That’s why we take the time to explain each step of the procedure and answer any questions you may have. We want you to feel confident and comfortable in our care.
Please call Moore Dental today to schedule a consultation if you are considering tooth extraction. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you decide if a tooth extraction is the right choice for you.
FAQ
Can I Brush My Teeth After Tooth Extraction?
The tooth extraction will heal after 7-10 days. As part of the healing process, you are advised not to brush your teeth until the gums have healed completely or at least for one week. For quick relief, you can take warm salt water rinses three times a day.
How to Care For Teeth After Extraction?
After tooth extraction, do not disturb the area by rinsing, sucking, or playing with either two holes. This is because the gums heal very quickly, and during this time, food particles can easily get stuck in between your teeth and cause infection.
Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
There are several reasons why your dentist might recommend a tooth extraction. The alternative would be to have a dental crown or implant placed, which will not be aesthetically pleasing and would require more time in the chair.
What’s Involved in a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is usually performed under local anesthesia. If your tooth is partially or entirely fractured, it may be too damaged to use the nerve block anesthetic, so that you will need general anesthesia for this type of procedure. The dentist would first remove the gum tissues on top of the tooth using a scalpel and an elevator tool. Then they will use a pair of forceps to loosen the tooth and finally remove it from the socket. If there is any bone or ligament damage, it will also be repaired at this point
If you are experiencing pain due to an infected tooth, your dentist may recommend tooth extraction as the best course of action. This is a relatively simple procedure and is something you can expect for your tooth extraction.