Tooth Extractions – Allen, TX
Tooth Removal Treatment You Can Trust
While no one wants to be told that their tooth needs to be removed, sometimes teeth can become so damaged that they are not only viable in the mouth but put neighboring teeth at risk in the process. In the event that we believe a tooth needs to be removed, Dr. Lewis will utilize photos and radiographs so you can see for yourself why she might have concerns. We’ll also make sure you’re comfortable and prepared for your treatment before moving forward with tooth extractions in Allen, TX.
Why Choose Allen Smile Design for Tooth Extractions?
- Dental Implant Treatment Available
- Provides Nitrous Oxide Sedation for Nervous Patients
- Detailed Examination and Diagnostics Performed
When Do Teeth Need to Be Extracted?
Teeth are extracted for a number of reasons, but the most common by far is due to untreated tooth decay. Alternatively, teeth can be extracted if they suffered a severe fracture that cracked the tooth all the way down to the root. They may also be removed in order to make room for orthodontics or if they are causing harm to neighboring teeth (which is common for wisdom teeth.) We’ll always be clear about why an extraction is needed.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
We only get one set of teeth in our lifetime, which is why it’s incredibly important that we do everything possible to keep them in pristine condition. Unfortunately, problems like decay and accidental injuries can cause your teeth to require extraction. If Dr. Lewis recommends that you get a tooth pulled, you may have several concerns running through your head. Luckily, we’re here to put your nerves to rest. Below, our team at Allen Smile Design has decided to answer some frequently asked questions about extractions.
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Many patients are hesitant to move forward with an extraction because the thought of getting a tooth pulled can be downright anxiety-inducing. Not only are they worried about the procedure, but the pain it’ll bring as well. Fortunately, Dr. Lewis will numb your mouth before the extraction to ensure you’re comfortable while it happens. It’s worth noting that you’ll likely experience mild soreness and discomfort for the first few days following the procedure. However, you can easily manage it by diligently following your aftercare instructions and getting lots of rest. If your pain worsens or you begin to show signs of an infection (i.e., fever), call our office right away for assistance.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
It depends on the reason behind your tooth extraction. If you need to get a tooth pulled because you have severe dental decay, root canal therapy may be an effective alternative. If it’s because you have advanced periodontal disease, root scaling and planing might be another option. However, those treatments may not be a viable choice for you if Dr. Lewis is recommending an extraction. Since dentists will do everything possible to save natural teeth, they will only recommend the procedure when it’s the last resort to getting your oral health back to its best shape.
What’s the Recovery for Tooth Extractions Like?
After tooth extraction, there’s a long list of aftercare instructions you must abide by to prevent infection and promote faster healing. Here are a few steps you’ll need to take to ensure proper healing:
- Care for the surgical site. One of the most important aspects of the recovery process is taking care of the blood clot that forms in the socket where your tooth used to be. If you fail to do so, it can lead to painful complications like a dry socket.
- Keep your mouth clean. Brush, floss, and rinse regularly with warm salt water to eliminate harmful bacteria from your mouth.
- Take pain medication. Prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce inflammation and alleviate your discomfort.
What Risks Are Involved with Tooth Extractions?
Even though tooth extractions are considered to be extremely safe, there are a few risks to be aware of. One of the biggest risks of this procedure is infection. If you don’t handle it well, it can spread to the rest of your body and potentially become life-threatening. Another significant risk is dry socket, a painful complication that happens when you fail to take proper care of the blood clot that forms on the surgical site. The good news is that you can drastically lower your chances of these risks by diligently following the aftercare instructions you were given.