Tooth Extractions: Everything You Need to Know

We all try to maintain excellent oral health to protect our teeth. However, occasionally it’s necessary to extract a tooth. Understanding the procedure and what to anticipate will help reduce any worry you may have, regardless of whether it is caused by serious decay, gum disease, crowding, or other factors. Look no further than Eagle Dental if you’re searching for a reputable dental office in La Porte, Texas for tooth extractions. We’ll go over every detail of tooth extractions that you need to know.

Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

There are several reasons why a tooth extraction might be recommended by your dentist:

Severe Tooth Decay

Extractions may be the only way to stop the infection from spreading when tooth decay is so severe that it cannot be adequately treated with a filling, crown, or root canal.

Gum Disease

Advanced gum disease can erode the teeth’s supporting tissues, causing teeth to move about and eventually fall out. To maintain general dental health, it may be necessary to extract impacted teeth in specific circumstances.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Third molars, or wisdom teeth, frequently lack sufficient room to properly erupt. This may result in impaction, which can hurt, infect, and harm nearby teeth. Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine treatment.

Crowding

When there is not enough room in the mouth for all the teeth to align properly, tooth extraction may be a necessary component of orthodontic treatment. A tooth or two can be extracted to make the space required for braces to function properly.

Trauma or Fractures

To avoid infection and future problems, extraction may be necessary in cases of severe damage or tooth fractures that cannot be fixed.

The Tooth Extraction Process

Assessment

Your dentist will perform a comprehensive examination before the extraction to ascertain the tooth’s condition and the most effective method of extraction, which may include X-rays.

Anesthesia

To ensure that you won’t experience any discomfort throughout the treatment, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area surrounding the tooth. 

Extraction

Using specialized tools, the dentist will delicately loosen the tooth during the extraction and then gently remove it from its socket. Although you could feel some pressure, you shouldn’t be in discomfort.

Aftercare

Your dentist will give you instructions on how to care for the extraction site following the tooth extraction, including how to keep it clean and what foods and activities to avoid. If necessary, painkillers or antibiotics may be provided to you.

Recovery

Depending on the difficulty of the extraction and your general health, the healing process may differ. Most people return to normal within a few days to a week, but you should avoid vigorous activity during that period.

What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction

It’s normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and mild bleeding after a tooth extraction. Following these tips can help you recover quicker:

  • Comply with your dentist’s instructions for taking any prescribed medications and cleaning the extraction site.
  • For a few days, stick to a soft diet to prevent irritating the extraction site. Eat less spicy, crunchy, and hot food.
  • Continue brushing and flossing your teeth, being cautious near the extraction site. Use warm saltwater to rinse to aid with healing.
  • Allow your body the time to recharge. Exercise and refrain from intense activity for a few days.

Trust Eagle Dental for Your Tooth Extraction 

If you require a tooth extraction in La Porte, TX, Eagle Dental is your trusted partner for exceptional dental care. From the initial assessment to the postoperative treatment, our skilled team will make sure you’re comfortable. Your well-being and dental health are our top priorities.

For all of your dental needs, including tooth extractions, don’t be afraid to contact us. We are here to assist you in obtaining and maintaining a radiant, healthy smile. Call Eagle Dental right away to arrange your consultation.