Why Do I Need to Have My Tooth Extracted?

At Afton Dental, saving a natural tooth is always our top priority. However, there are times that a tooth is damaged beyond repair, leaving extraction as the only viable option. With our sedation dentistry options and gentle techniques, you can always expect safe and comfortable care!

Why Would a Tooth Require Extraction?

Here are the most common reasons you would need to have a tooth extracted: 

• Deep, extensive decay can put the surrounding teeth and jaw at risk, necessitating the extraction of the affected tooth. 
• A tooth with damage from injury or trauma that does not respond to root canal therapy or other restorative procedures may need removal. 
• Advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, can destroy the bone and tissue supporting the tooth, leaving no option but extraction.
• A baby tooth that is misshapen or has long tooth roots that prevent it from falling out may require removal to allow the permanent replacement to erupt. 
• Orthodontic treatments for cases such as a crowded mouth often involve selective extractions to make the needed room for the remaining teeth to move into alignment.
• Wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most common oral surgeries performed because these third molars are notorious for causing problems. 

What Should You Expect During the Procedure?

Once we establish the need for a tooth extraction, we will discuss our sedation dentistry options and the gentle techniques we use. We encourage you to ask any questions and share any concerns you may have about the procedure. 

The type of extraction you’ll require will depend on your unique needs. A simple extraction is needed to remove a tooth easily accessible and visible above the gum line. A surgical extraction, on the other hand, is necessary to extract an impacted, weak, or fractured tooth. 

What Should You Expect After Tooth Extraction?

Recovery after a simple tooth extraction is usually no longer than 48 hours. A surgical tooth extraction, on the other hand, may take a little longer. Make sure you follow our post-operative instructions to help promote healing.

It’s important to avoid spitting forcefully, rinsing vigorously, smoking, or drinking from a straw for at least 48 hours after removing a tooth to prevent a painful complication known as dry socket, which occurs when the clot forming in the socket is dislodged. Dry socket may delay healing and occurs 3-5 days after the tooth has come out.  In the rare event that happens, you’ll require in-office treatment.

Once a tooth has been removed, depending on its location, the neighboring teeth may shift or tilt, leaving you with chewing, teeth alignment, or jaw joint function problems. We may recommend replacing the extracted tooth with a dental implant or a bridge to prevent these complications.

Gentle Tooth Extractions in Concord, NC

At Afton Dental, our goal is always to save a natural tooth using the most conservative treatments possible. If, however, extraction is our only option, our skilled and highly experienced team will provide you with the outstanding, gentle care you deserve. You can always count on us. Call us and schedule your appointment today!