Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Extractions

Even though a tooth extraction is the most common surgical procedure in the U.S. and more than 20 million teeth are extracted annually, over two-thirds of people have dental anxiety or dental phobia. These are fears of dental procedures, and have developed over the decades, but they are no longer necessary. Advances in modern dentistry have made dental procedures quicker and almost painless, so if you're delaying a needed tooth extraction because of anxiety or fear, there's good news! Call our Florida office to schedule an appointment, and we'll help you get the procedure you need without fear or anxiety. Maintaining a healthy mouth is the first step to maintaining a healthy body, don't delay calling us.

Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extractions are very common, but you can have the same symptoms that can be caused by other issues. A dentist needs to determine the causes. Call to make an appointment in our Florida office to determine whether you need a tooth extraction, and if so, which type. Symptoms you shouldn't ignore include redness, swelling, pain or tenderness, or a loose tooth. If your tooth is decayed, damaged, or impacted, then you may need a tooth extraction.

When you come to our Florida office, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, and we'll take X-rays. This information will tell us what's causing your issues and the best way to correct them. You may need a simple extraction, or if your tooth is impacted, you may need a surgical extraction. If you have a complex issue and need a surgical extraction, we may refer you to a local oral surgeon.

What Are My Tooth Extraction Options?

The most common tooth extraction is a simple extraction. A more complex procedure is a surgical extraction. A simple extraction is typically performed on a tooth that is easily accessible but not salvageable. It can be damaged or decayed, but it is no longer serviceable and can't be repaired. This is the fastest type of extraction and is usually done in our office. Your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic and gently remove the tooth using specialized instruments. 

A surgical extraction is often performed by an oral surgeon and involves removing the tooth surgically. You may receive sedation, local anesthesia, or general anesthesia depending on your needs. Your surgeon will make one or more small incisions in your gum, then remove the tooth through the incisions. Often, the tooth will be removed in sections. Both the procedure and the recovery time will be longer for this type of extraction than for a simple extraction.

How Long Is the Recovery Time Following an Extraction?

Recovery time is unique to the individual; there's no set time for recovering from either procedure. However, a surgical extraction has a longer recovery than a simple extraction. Your dentist will provide you with aftercare instructions that have been tailored to your unique situation, but the following tips may help speed your recovery and make it more comfortable:

1. Control the bleeding by biting down on the gauze pad without letting up. Change the gauze as you need to, and the bleeding should stop within about 30 minutes. If it doesn't, call our Florida office.
2. Manage any pain or discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications that your dentist suggests. If you experience severe pain, call our Florida office.
3.  For the first 24 hours, don't use a straw, smoke, spit, rinse your mouth forcefully, or engage in strenuous activities. If you do, you risk dislodging your clot and will have to start the process over.
4. After the first 24 hours, keep the site clean by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water several times daily. This will help deter infection and your site will heal more quickly.
5. Maintain your good oral hygiene, and after the first 24 hours, begin to gently clean the area with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

The above is for information only and isn't meant to override your dentist's instructions. Your aftercare instructions from your dentist are tailored specifically to your needs, so follow their instructions first.

Ready to Make an Appointment for a Tooth Extraction?

If you need to make an appointment for a tooth extraction, you can do no better than to call Towncare Dental at ,and let us help you. We're one of the best in the area, and we know you'll be happy with the dental care you receive. 

Our only objective is your good oral health. When you have good oral health, you'll have better physical health and your beautiful smile will benefit also, so call our Florida office today.

You'll be glad you made the call.