There’s probably a lot of things you’d rather be doing than having a tooth pulled, but sometimes it’s inevitable. Our Langhorne dental team at Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery are experts on happy, healthy smiles, and we know that sometimes a healthy smile requires pulling a tooth or two.
When a tooth needs to be pulled
From damage and neglect to genetics and health concerns—there are many reasons why your tooth might need to go. At our office, our highly experienced dentists can walk you through your options and let you know if an extraction might be right for you.
Here are some of the most common reasons for tooth extractions:
- Damage and decay. When your tooth is cracked, broken, or decayed, it leaves room for bacteria to find its way to the sensitive, nerve-filled “pulp” of your tooth. The bacteria can cause infections, severe pain, and other serious medical issues if not handled promptly. Typically, your dentist will first try to remedy the situation with root canal therapy, antibiotics, and a crown. However, if the tooth is too far damaged, it may have to be removed altogether.
- Health risks. Damaged teeth can lead to infections, and for people with compromised autoimmune systems, that risk is far too high. In this case, your dental and medical team may explore the option of tooth extraction to eliminate the risk factor.
- Orthodontal work. If your smile is overcrowded, tooth extraction may be a part of your orthodontal plan. Sometimes, orthodontists may remove a tooth or two before starting braces or Invisalign to create space for your remaining tooth to move into.
- Periodontal Disease. If you suffer from Periodontal Disease, also known as Gum Disease, it’s not uncommon to have extractions. With Gum Disease, your gums can become inflamed, recede, and cause permanent teeth to become loose. Sometimes, dentists will do a final tug to finish the process.
- Wisdom Teeth. One of the most common extraction types is the third set of molars that usually appear in your late teens and early adult years. However, not everyone has these molars, and not everyone with the additional molars needs to get them pulled. Wisdom teeth are usually removed when they cause pain, discomfort, damage, or potential damage down the line.
The tooth extraction process
It’s normal to feel nervous about a tooth extraction. However, when you opt for a trusted and experienced dental team that is specialized in such procedures, you can relax knowing you’re in good hands. Our Langhorne dental team at Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery makes sure you understand every step of the procedure and that you feel comfortable and informed.
Here is what to expect from your tooth extraction:
- Local anesthetics will be administered to numb the area of the extraction and prevent any pain during the procedure. In extreme cases, you may receive general anesthetics that will cause you to sleep through the procedure.
- If your tooth is impacted, gum tissue and bone will need to be removed before your tooth can be extracted. In some cases, the tooth may need to be taken out in fragments.
- Blood clots may form in the tooth socket—this is normal. Gauze pads will be placed over the socket, and the patient will be instructed to bite down to restrict blood flow. In some cases, the dentist may close the area with self-dissolving stitches.
What to do after a tooth extraction
Recovering from a tooth extraction can be uncomfortable, so it’s best to review and prepare your recovery plan before the procedure. Your dentist should supply you with specific care instructions. It’s essential to follow each rule, as they help to speed up recovery and prevent complications, additional pain, or other issues. Your dentist may also prescribe medication to help ease the pain and discomfort. With proper care, you can typically recover from a tooth extraction within 1-3 days.
Where to have a tooth pulled
If you’re in need of a tooth extraction in Langhorne, PA, call Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery today. In your one-on-one consultation, our expert dentists will examine your smile and help you create a dental plan that works for you and your smile. Don’t wait—schedule an appointment today.