Tooth Extractions
Tooth Extractions in Shelby, OH
Take care of your teeth with preventative and restorative dental care. Call 419-342-4217 to book an appointment in Shelby, OH.
Tooth decay can cause severe pain and make it difficult to enjoy your favorite foods and beverages. At Discovery Dental, we use the latest dental technology and methods to provide premier dental care for patients of all ages. In addition, we offer tooth extractions in Shelby, OH, for patients with severe tooth decay.
Tooth extractions remove a damaged or decayed tooth to eliminate pain and prevent infection from spreading. As an experienced general dentist, Dr. Marissa Miller strives to create a welcoming environment for all her patients while providing the best care possible.
Types of Tooth Extractions
Tooth extraction is the process of removing a damaged or decayed tooth. Discovery Dental uses two types of tooth extractions in Shelby, OH: basic extractions and surgical extractions.
1. Basic Extraction
A basic extraction is the process of removing a tooth that is visible in the mouth and sits above the gum line. The oral surgeon will use a general anesthetic to numb the area and eliminate discomfort for most procedures.
2. Surgical Extraction
Oral surgeons use surgical extractions to remove teeth broken at the gum line or teeth that have yet to come in. To remove the hidden teeth, the surgeon will curtail the gums, which often requires a general anesthetic in a hospital setting.
When Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction may be necessary for various situations:
- Your tooth has severe decay.
- There is severe damage to your tooth.
- You can’t afford specific restorative treatments.
- You are preparing for dental implants.
- You are getting permanent dentures or dental bridges.
We often suggest tooth extractions for patients with severe tooth decay. Oral infection can quickly spread to the surrounding tissues in your mouth, leading to increased pain and discomfort. A tooth extraction removes the infected tooth and prevents the bacteria from spreading and causing more damage.
What Happens During the Tooth Extraction Procedure?
The oral surgeon will use a local anesthetic to numb your gums, tooth, and jawbone to prepare for the extraction procedure. During a simple extraction procedure, you will likely feel pressure as the doctor removes the tooth; however, the anesthetic will help eliminate pain.
The oral surgeon will have to use a sectioning technique for some teeth. For example, if your tooth is firmly anchored or has a curved root, the surgeon will cut the tooth into sections and remove each part individually.
What Happens After a Tooth Extraction
Since tooth extraction is a surgical procedure, your doctor will give you a specific set of instructions to follow for proper aftercare.
Blood clotting is vital to stop the bleeding and start proper healing. After the procedure, you will need to bite down on a pad of gauze for about 30 or 45 minutes. If the bleeding continues, bite down on a fresh pad of gauze for an additional 30 minutes.
Once the blood starts to clot, it is vital to avoid certain actions that could dislodge the clot, including:
- Using a straw
- Drinking alcohol
- Smoking/Vaping
- Brushing teeth around the extraction area
- Avoiding mouthwash
You should avoid these activities for at least 72 hours following the procedure. Additionally, your surgeon will recommend that you avoid exercise for at least 24 hours after the procedure, as it can increase your blood pressure and lead to additional bleeding.
You should also avoid eating solid foods or hot beverages for 24 hours to promote proper healing.
Although you won’t feel any pain during the procedure, it is common to feel mild discomfort or swelling. You can use an ice pack to reduce the swelling for the next 48 hours. In addition, your doctor may prescribe pain medication to help you reduce pain and discomfort.
Book a Tooth Extraction Today
After an extraction, you will have a gap in your mouth where the tooth was, affecting how you eat and speak. Additionally, teeth will naturally shift when a gap is present, impacting your smile and bite.
Many patients will replace their missing teeth with dental implants or other restorative dental treatments. Discovery Dental will work with you to discuss your restorative dentistry options and help you achieve an improved bite and beautiful smile.
Discovery Dental offers a wide range of services to help patients maintain optimum oral health and beautiful smiles. Call our office at 419-342-4217 to book an appointment or learn more about tooth extractions in Shelby, OH.
