When is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Dental extraction, or removing a tooth, may be performed for different reasons. Most commonly decay, infection, or breakage may have damaged the tooth structure beyond repair. When restoration is not an option, extracting the infected tooth is the healthiest option.
Sometimes, wisdom teeth will have to be extracted, as will teeth in a mouth that requires more space for orthodontic treatment. Patients that have severe gum disease could have supporting tissues and bone structure that are affected enough to require extraction. Our dentists will spend the time with you to discuss the pros and cons of tooth extraction and together you can decide if this treatment is right for you.
If you’re interested in discussing whether you may or may not need a tooth extraction, please contact The Dentists of Omaha by calling us at Hillsborough: 402-445-4647, Village Pointe: 402-505-7474, Ralston Square: 402-733-4441, or Dundee: 402-502-5593 today.
What To Expect During Dental Extractions
Many extractions can be performed with local anesthesia in our office. Making sure you’re comfortable is our priority. The procedure, risks, and post-operative instructions will be thoroughly explained. Our dentists have decades of experience helping members of the Omaha, Bellevue, Lincoln, and nearby communitieshave their oral health taken care of when they come to see the dentists at Omaha.
Are Tooth Extractions Painful?
We will ensure that you’re calm and comfortable and that you won’t experience any pain. With the right tools, experience, anesthetics, and equipment, tooth extractions can be almost painless. The anesthesia helps eliminate the pain almost entirely, and we can give you more if you have a high tolerance to the pain numbing medication. You may feel the pressure of the tooth being extracted, but that is also usually painless.
What Are the Most Common Issues That Lead to a Tooth Extraction?
An extraction is performed when a tooth needs to be removed. The most common issues that lead to a tooth extraction include disease and damage. Sometimes, crowding is also a factor. Here are a few specific problems that may call for tooth extraction:
- Decay or infection that has spread deep into a tooth
- Trauma, injury, or extensive tooth damage
- Lack of space for all of your teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Severe gum disease
It can be unpleasant to hear that you need to have a tooth removed. However, having your tooth extracted is a safe and effective procedure that is only recommended when it is the ideal option for your oral health. Tooth extraction alleviates painful or unsightly dental issues to bring out the best in your smile.
What Are the Restrictions After Having a Tooth Pulled?
You will need to avoid several things after getting a tooth extraction to avoid irritating the gums or area of where the tooth was pulled. Irritation can lead to other complications, so try to avoid the following:
- Smoking
- Rinsing your mouth vigorously
- Strenuous activity
- Alcoholic beverages
- Extremely hot or cold liquids
- Drinking through a straw
- Brushing or flossing next to where the tooth was removed
- Using mouthwash
- Eating hard or chewy foods
Our dentistswill give you more information and let you know when it is safe to resume your regular routine. In the meantime, follow the recommended post-op care instructions, and do not try to rush the healing process. Remember that these restrictions are in place for your benefit, and to help ensure the success of the procedure.
How Do I Prepare for a Tooth Extraction?
Some steps to prepare for a tooth extraction will vary from one patient to another. For example, you may or may not be prescribed antibiotics to take in the days leading up to the procedure. Our dentists will provide detailed pre-operative instructions to get you ready for your extraction. In general, you may need to:
- Fast before your appointment
- Wear loose-fitting clothing or a short-sleeved shirt
- Quit smoking
- Report signs of a cold, nausea, or vomiting
- Arrange for transportation
Following these instructions, depending on your situation and if you’ve been advised to do so, can help improve the results of your tooth extraction procedure.
Procedure Healing & Recovery Time
It often takes between seven to ten days for a socket to heal after tooth extraction. If there are any complications during the recovery process, then the healing period can be longer than that.
Factors such as the size of the extracted tooth and the type of extraction will also play a role. It is not uncommon for complete healing to happen several months following a tooth extraction.
How Long Does It Take To Feel Normal After Tooth Extraction?
Under regular circumstances, your mouth should feel normal within a few weeks of having your tooth extraction procedure. By that time, any discomfort should lessen. It should be okay to chew on the treated side of your mouth. You will also be able to resume other daily activities. If you are experiencing any pain or difficulty chewing on the side of your mouth that was treated, give us a call and schedule an appointment.
How Do I Know if My Tooth Extraction Is Healing Properly?
You can easily monitor your healing progress after a tooth extraction if you know what symptoms to expect. Some things, such as light bleeding, mild swelling, and manageable discomfort are normal and to be expected during the initial phase of your recovery period.
However, other symptoms may indicate that a complication has occurred during healing. Contact our dentists if you experience signs of infection or dry socket, or other symptoms including:
- Severe swelling or delayed swelling
- New or intense pain
- Heavy bleeding
- Fever
- Vomiting
Schedule Your Procedure Today
If you believe you need an extraction performed due to decay or for orthodontic purposes, The Dentists of Omaha can provide you with the necessary dental health services. We pride ourselves on providing the best possible dental care and service possible. With state-of-the-art technology and equipment, we make sure to give you the best results, and a smile you can be proud of.
Our dentists and dental care professionals take their time to get to know you and your family, and ensure that you have a comfortable general dentistry experience. Contact us today at Hillsborough: 402-445-4647, Village Pointe: 402-505-7474, Ralston Square: 402-733-4441, or Dundee: 402-502-5593 to speak to a team member at one of our four locations in Omaha. We’re sure we have a location near you!