While our goal here at Park Central Dental is to preserve and protect your natural teeth, there are some situations where our dentists may recommend that a tooth be removed. Dr. Mazin Nakhleh, Dr. Laura Fisher or Dr. Shohreh Sharifi will examine your teeth to determine if a tooth extraction is the right option for you.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. This procedure is often considered a last resort when other dental treatments cannot save a tooth. There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. Simple extractions involve removing a visible tooth that has erupted through the gum line, while surgical extractions are more complex and involve removing a tooth that is not easily accessible, such as impacted wisdom teeth.
When is Tooth Extraction Recommended
Tooth extraction may be recommended for situations such as:
- Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is extensively damaged by decay and cannot be restored with fillings, crowns or root canals, extraction may be necessary to prevent further infection.
- Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can lead to loose teeth that may need to be extracted to preserve overall oral health.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth often become impacted, causing pain, infection or crowding of other teeth. In such cases, extraction is commonly recommended.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Sometimes, orthodontic treatment requires the removal of one or more teeth to create space for proper alignment.
- Infection or Abscess: Untreated infections or dental abscesses can necessitate tooth extraction to prevent the spread of infection.
Post-Op Instructions
After a tooth extraction, it is essential to follow post-operative instructions to promote proper healing and minimize complications. These instructions typically include:
- Biting on Gauze: Bite down on a piece of sterile gauze provided by our dentists to control bleeding. Change the gauze as needed.
- Pain Management: Take prescribed pain medications or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed to manage discomfort.
- Avoid Certain Activities: Refrain from strenuous activities, smoking and drinking through a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot that forms in the extraction site.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by gently rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater and avoiding the extraction site while brushing and flossing.
- Diet: Consume soft foods and liquids for the first few days and gradually reintroduce a regular diet as advised by your dentist.
- Follow-up Appointments: Attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by our dentists to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Schedule An Appointment
Give us a call at 214-340-9696 to learn more about tooth extractions in Dallas, Texas, and schedule your appointment!