Why You May Need Tooth Extraction
Saving your teeth is the number one priority of our Ann Arbor, MI, dentists. We want you to be able to keep your natural teeth intact but sometimes, damage or injury makes it so that we can’t rescue every tooth. That’s when tooth extraction becomes a viable possibility and an all-too-real solution for your smile.
Here are a few instances where comes into play and what you can expect for the procedure.
When It’s Time For Extraction
Oftentimes, if you have a broken tooth or one that is damaged by decay, our dentists can make the repair with a tooth-colored filling, dental crown, or other similar treatment. When damage is too severe, however, those fixes are no longer an option and we may recommend extraction.
Tooth extraction might be best if:
- Trauma or injury has occurred
- Present tooth decay or infection exists
- There’s a need for orthodontic treatment
- You have advanced periodontal disease
- The tooth or tooth roots are fractured
- A tooth is impacted or malpositioned
Each patient is different. Before we move ahead with treatment, our dentists will fully assess your condition and determine if the tooth extraction procedure is indeed the correct path to pursue.
Before & During the Tooth Extraction Procedure
Prior to the tooth removal, our dentists will take a few X-rays of the tooth in question to observe its shape, length, and position. Information gathered from the X-rays will help our dentists determine if you need to be referred to an oral surgeon.
The tooth extraction process will begin with the application of a local anesthetic to properly numb the area around your tooth. Once the area is numb, our dentists will employ the use of a tool called an elevator which helps loosen the tooth. Dental forceps will then be used to remove the tooth.
After removal, our dentists may need to close the area with a few stitches. We can discuss this stage with you beforehand so you understand how the stitches need to be cared for and when they’ll come out.
Recommended Aftercare Instructions
Practicing good oral hygiene after a tooth extraction is essential. You will need to keep the area clean to prevent any possible infection. Our dentists will provide you with dry gauze following the procedure that you will be expected to bite down on for 30-45 minutes to limit bleeding while clotting occurs.
It is also recommended that you avoid smoking, rinse your mouth thoroughly, and adequately brush the teeth next to the extraction site. There may be some discomfort after the procedure but over-the-counter pain medication or an ice pack should help relieve pain and swelling.
Still have questions? Call our Ann Arbor dental office and we’ll help you get the answers you need for a speedy .
Make an Appointment
Getting a tooth extracted may not be your idea of a good time, but it’s sometimes the best solution our dentists in Ann Arbor, MI, have available. You can rest assured that you’re in good hands while in our care. Call Liberty Dental today at (734) 994-0909 to request an appointment.
This blog post has been updated.