Tooth Extraction for Pain Management
Houston, TX
 Don’t be worried about tooth extractions. At Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS we provide a stress-free environment and pain-free dentistry to make the experience as carefree as possible.
We appreciate that having a tooth removed is troubling, not just because of concerns about the procedure itself, but also because you may be embarrassed by having a missing tooth. With our assistance, the extraction itself will be a straightforward process, and we can offer you a range of tooth replacement options to keep your smile looking good.
When Should I Get a Tooth Removed?
A tooth may need to be removed if it is too damaged to save with other procedures, such as root canal treatment. This may be through trauma, tooth decay, or periodontal disease. If you are having orthodontic treatment with braces, some teeth may need to be removed to make more room in your mouth, and some people who are having treatments such as chemotherapy may need to have teeth removed to keep their mouth healthy.
What Is the Procedure for a Tooth Extraction?
Extractions are typically carried out under a local anesthetic when the area around the tooth is numbed. However, for patients who are anxious, we do offer a range of sedation techniques in addition to a local anesthetic to help you relax. Depending on whether your tooth is impacted or visible, you will have either a simple or surgical extraction.
A simple extraction is when the tooth is removed without making any incisions into the gum. The tooth is loosened using hand-held instruments so that it slides out easily with forceps.
A surgical extraction is carried out if the tooth has not emerged or is broken below the gum line. An incision will need to be made in the gums to ease the extraction process. Once the tooth is removed the resulting wound is closed with dissolving stitches.
Aftercare for Extractions
Bleeding is likely to occur after the tooth extraction. A piece of absorbent gauze is placed over the site, which you may need to gently bite down on to stop the blood flow and encourage the formation of a blood clot.
Any prescribed medication should be taken according to instructions, and you should use pain medication as required. Applying an ice pack frequently throughout the following 48 hours will help to reduce any swelling and quicken your recovery. Rinsing the mouth with lukewarm, salt water will help to keep the mouth clean and it is particularly useful after consuming food to dislodge any debris.
For your comfort, you may want to sleep propped up on pillows and stick to eating soft, pureed foods that do not require any chewing, such as mashed potatoes and yogurt. You can gradually resume eating solid foods as your mouth begins to feel less sore as it heals. It is imperative you do not smoke, which inhibits blood flow leaving you open to infection. Keeping your mouth clean is crucial, so you will need to clean your teeth as best you can, avoiding the extraction site until it has healed.
Discover more about tooth extractions at Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS by giving us a call at (346) 250-2930. We can help answer any of your questions or concerns.
Additional Information:
Tooth Socket Graft
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