We want to preserve your natural teeth for as long as possible. However, removing a problematic tooth can treat pain and prevent further complications from tooth infection, damage, or overcrowding. At Lochwood Family Dental, we offer comfortable tooth extraction treatment in Dallas, TX.
Our dentists use the latest techniques and technology to keep your teeth and gums healthy. We will also work with you for a pain-free tooth removal.
Reasons You Need a Tooth Extraction
Severe dental problems can impact the health of your teeth. Over time, without treatment, we cannot save a tooth. Multiple reasons why we must remove a tooth can include:
Infection
One of the most common reasons for tooth extraction is severe decay. Untreated tooth decay can lead to unbearable pain and even abscesses. Extracting a damaged tooth can prevent the spread of infection and relieve pain, improving your overall oral health. This extraction can also save the surrounding teeth and gums.
Gum disease can weaken the bone structure supporting your teeth. Extraction might be necessary when the bones and gums can no longer hold the teeth securely. This step keeps the surrounding teeth and gums healthy and prevents more issues.
Damaged Teeth
In some cases, dental trauma or injury can cause permanent damage to teeth. If we cannot repair a broken or cracked tooth with a crown or filling, we may remove it. We can also replace the tooth with a dental implant or other restoration.
Overcrowding
When your teeth are too close together, it can cause misalignment. This can make it hard to brush and floss, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Extracting one or more teeth can allow other teeth to move into their correct position.
Impacted Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties. However, they often lack room to emerge or develop normally. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and other dental complications. Removing these teeth can stop these issues.
Are Extractions Painful?
While many patients fear pain during a tooth extraction, we ensure your comfort. Our experienced dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area before removing the tooth, so you will feel little to no pain. If you need a more complex extraction, we will use sedation.
In addition, our staff is trained to provide efficient and compassionate care to ensure you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the process.
We understand that some treatments can be anxiety-inducing. Our dentists take every measure possible to calm your fears and provide a positive experience. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. We want treatment to be as painless and stress-free as possible.
Tooth Extraction in Dallas, TX
It takes multiple steps to remove a tooth. While extraction is often a routine procedure, we must ensure you are a candidate for treatment.
Initial Consultation
Your first step is an initial consultation. During this appointment, our dentist will assess your oral health. Our dentist will discuss the details of the procedure and answer your questions.
We will also review your medical history and conduct a thorough oral examination. This consultation helps determine if you need a teeth extraction.
X-Rays and Examination
We will take X-rays to understand the position and condition of the tooth and surrounding bone structure. X-rays provide a detailed view of the tooth’s roots. We can also see inside the tooth, which we can’t see during a routine examination. X-rays help us plan a safe and effective extraction procedure.
Local Anesthesia
Before the extraction, we use local anesthesia to numb the area. This ensures minimal discomfort during the procedure. We may sometimes recommend sedation, especially for more complex extractions like impacted wisdom teeth.
Extraction Procedure
Our dentist will carefully loosen the tooth using special instruments, such as elevators and forceps, and then remove the tooth. The process involves gently rocking the tooth back and forth to reduce the risk of damaging surrounding tissues. The extraction process can take minutes or hours.
A simple extraction can take under an hour. However, if you have teeth at or below the gum line, it can take hours. Complex extractions often need sedation.
Problems Post-Extraction
If you do not properly care for your teeth and gums after treatment, you may have these issues:
Dry Socket
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges or dissolves before the wound heals. This can cause pain and delay healing. Symptoms include severe pain, a visible bone in the socket, and a bad taste in the mouth. If you suspect a dry socket, contact us for treatment.
Infection
You can develop an infection if bacteria enter the extraction site. Symptoms of an infection include increased pain, swelling, fever, and a foul taste in the mouth. If you maintain good oral hygiene and follow aftercare instructions, it can help prevent infections. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics.
Nerve Damage
Although rare, nerve damage can occur during extraction, especially with wisdom teeth. This can create numbness in the lips, tongue, and chin. Discussing the risks with your dentist beforehand can help you understand the likelihood and possible outcomes of nerve damage.
Recovery and Tips for Healing
After the extraction, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions. Following these instructions is vital for proper healing. Immediate care typically involves applying a gauze pad to the extraction site to control bleeding.
Most people recover from a tooth extraction within 1-2 weeks. You should follow your dentist’s care instructions during this time for a smooth healing process.
Treat Pain
Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen can help manage discomfort after a tooth extraction and reduce inflammation. Our dentist may prescribe stronger pain relievers in cases of more severe pain. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional.
Manage Swelling
Swelling is a common response to tooth extraction. You can apply an ice pack to the outside of your face for 15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling. Do not use ice for over 15 minutes multiple times a day.
This is most effective within the first 24 hours after extraction. In addition, you can elevate your head when you sleep to increase blood flow to the area.
Eat Soft Foods
Stick to a soft-food diet after treatment. Foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and applesauce are easy to consume and irritate the extraction site. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that disturb the healing process. Also, stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
Visit the Dentist
Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments. These visits allow us to monitor healing and address any concerns. Our dentist will check the extraction site to ensure it heals properly. If you have concerns during your recovery, please contact us.
Call Our Office Today
Do you have tooth pain from an infected or damaged tooth? You may need tooth removal. If you think you need a tooth extraction in Dallas, TX, contact Lochwood Family Dental today. You can schedule an appointment online or call 214-544-9633.
We proudly serve Dallas and nearby cities like Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, and Garland. Let our team provide the professional care you need.