Tooth Extractions in Red Oak, TX

Tooth Extractions in Red Oak, TX

Tooth extraction is simply the removal of a tooth from its socket in your jawbone. This can be done by either a dentist or an oral surgeon, depending on the complexity of the procedure. 
 
There are two types of extractions: simple and surgical. Simple extractions are usually performed when a tooth is visible above the gum line and can be easily removed with forceps. Surgical extractions, on the other hand, require more complex procedures, such as cutting into gum tissue or removing bone around the tooth. 
 
Teeth sometimes need to be extracted due to decay or damage beyond repair. Other times, they may need to be removed if they're causing overcrowding in your mouth or preventing proper alignment for braces. 
 
Tooth extraction may sound intimidating, but it's actually a common dental procedure that millions undergo every year. Our dentist will explain all aspects of treatment, so you’ll know what to expect during and after your appointment!

Why Might You Need a Tooth Extraction?

There are several reasons why a tooth extraction might be necessary. One of the most common reasons is severe decay or damage to the tooth that cannot be repaired by other dental procedures, such as fillings or crowns. In some cases, this can lead to infection and pain. 
 
Another reason for needing a tooth extraction is overcrowding in the mouth. If there isn't enough room for all of your teeth to fit comfortably, it may be necessary to remove one or more teeth to make space and prevent misalignment. 
 
Gum disease can also cause problems that require tooth extractions. This occurs when bacteria build up on your teeth and gums, causing inflammation that can eventually lead to bone loss and loose teeth. 
 
If you have impacted wisdom teeth, which means they haven't fully emerged from your gums, they may need to be extracted as well. These teeth can cause pain and infection if left untreated. 
 
Ultimately, every situation is unique and requires an individualized approach from your dentist or oral surgeon. They will evaluate your specific needs and recommend the best course of action for you based on their professional expertise.

The Extraction Process

The extraction process is a routine procedure that dentists perform to remove a tooth from its socket in the bone. Before starting the extraction, our dentist will numb the area around your tooth with an injection of local anesthesia. This will help ease any pain or discomfort during the procedure. 
 
Once you are numb, our dentist will use special tools to loosen your tooth and lift it out of its socket. Depending on how difficult it is to extract your tooth, this may take just a few minutes or up to half an hour. 
 
After extracting your tooth, your dentist may place gauze over the socket and ask you to bite down gently for 20 to 30 minutes. This helps stop bleeding and allows a blood clot to form in the socket. 
 
In some cases, if there's not enough space for all of your teeth or if they are too crowded together, orthodontic treatment such as braces can be used before or after extractions. 
 
While having a tooth extracted might seem scary at first thought, rest assured that modern dental practices have made it much more comfortable than ever before!

Aftercare

Once the tooth has been extracted, it is important to follow proper aftercare procedures to ensure that the healing process goes smoothly. Immediately following the extraction, a gauze pad will be placed over the socket, and you will be instructed to bite down on it for about 20 to 30 minutes. This helps control any bleeding. 
 
After this period, remove the gauze pad and discard it. It's normal to experience some swelling and discomfort in the days following an extraction. To help reduce swelling, place an ice pack for 10-minute intervals on your cheek near where the extraction was performed. 
 
It's important to not smoke or use tobacco products for at least 48 hours after having a tooth extracted. This is because smoking can delay healing time significantly. 
 
For pain relief, take over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed by our dentist. Be sure to avoid aspirin which can thin your blood and increase bleeding risks. 
 
As part of post-extraction care instructions provided by your dentist, you may also need to rinse with warm salt water several times throughout each day, starting from day two onwards, until the extraction site has fully healed (usually one week). Follow all instructions given carefully for best results 
 
Taking good care of yourself during this time should allow you to heal quickly without complications so that you can get back into your daily routine soon enough!

To learn more about our dental services, call us at (972) 576-0602 or visit Pearson Family Dentistry at 307 East Ovilla Road #400, Red Oak, TX 75154.

Location

307 EAST OVILLA ROAD, SUITE 400,
Red Oak 75154

Office Hours

MON8:00 am - 4:00 pm

TUE - WED9:00 am - 5:00 pm

THU7:30 am - 2:30 pm

FRI - SUNClosed