Tooth Extractions – North Dallas, TX

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

You may be wondering why a tooth would ever need to be extracted. In some cases, removing the tooth is the best or only way to save the rest of your smile, such as in the following situations:

• Severe gum disease has weakened the jawbone that supports the teeth.
• Extensive decay or damage leaves insufficient tooth structure to restore with a dental crown.
• Overcrowded teeth prevent orthodontic treatment.
• Infection threatens to spread from the tooth to other oral structures.

Rest assured, we will review all of your treatment options during your visit and answer any questions you have so you feel completely confident moving forward.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. Below, you’ll find a little more information on each, but it’s important that we first mention that your mouth will be completely numbed beforehand. Plus, Dr. Lee and the rest of our team will be with you every step of the way, making sure that you’re comfortable! With all of that in mind, here’s the difference between a simple extraction and a surgical extraction:

• Simple extraction: Simple extractions are ideal when the tooth in question has already broken through the gumline, allowing us to grip the tooth before gently rocking it loose. Once it’s ready to be removed, we will carefully do so before tending to the extraction site.
• Surgical extraction: Surgical extractions are used when the tooth is trapped underneath the gumline. After creating a small incision in your gums, we can carefully remove the tooth section by section. Then, we will tend to the extraction site and review the aftercare instructions.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

To ensure you heal comfortably, we will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, like:

• Taking prescribed or OTC pain medication as directed
• Brushing and flossing carefully around the extraction site
• Keeping your head elevated, even while you sleep
• Changing the gauze as needed
• Eating only extremely soft foods, like plain yogurt
• Not spitting, smoking, or drinking through a straw