Dental Extractions in Mallard Creek, NC
At Afton Dental, we never spare any effort to save a damaged tooth. However, having a tooth extracted is sometimes our only viable option to maintain the health and harmony of your smile. Our compassionate team strives to make the dental extraction procedure as comfortable and pleasant as possible for our patients. Your dental health and comfort are our priority.
What Are Tooth Extractions?
In simple terms, a tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. With today's modern dental technology, techniques, and dental anesthetics, it is usually a routine procedure with minimal pain or discomfort.
Dr. Hill may recommend extracting a tooth that has severe damage due to deep decay or trauma and cannot be saved, even with the help of root canal therapy. We also perform selective extractions, at times, as a component of an orthodontic treatment plan to make space for the remaining teeth to shift into alignment.
Another reason you may need to have a tooth extracted is when a tooth is fully or partially impacted or stuck in the jaw, which usually occurs with erupting wisdom teeth. That can lead to complications, including infections, cysts, and even damage to the neighboring teeth or bone. Insufficient space in the jaw for your wisdom teeth can lead to alignment issues and problems with the bite.
What Is the Tooth Extraction Procedure?
We will start the process with a consultation during which we will take x-rays of your mouth to get a clear view of the affected tooth and the surrounding structures. Before extracting the tooth, we will numb the area with a local anesthetic for your comfort. You should feel no pain but may feel pressure.
Dr. Hill performs simple and surgical extractions. You will need a simple extraction if the tooth is visible and easily accessible. If, on the other hand, the tooth is impacted, you may need what's known as a surgical tooth extraction. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after tooth extraction.
Recovery After Tooth Extraction
After having a tooth extracted, the recovery will begin. Make sure to follow our post-extraction instructions to promote healing. We may also prescribe pain medication to soothe any minor discomfort in the following days.
Right after your tooth extraction, make sure to bite down on the gauze we place on the extraction site to stop bleeding. For the first few days, stick to soft foods like yogurt, pudding, and soup. Steer clear of hot, cold, or spicy foods that may irritate the area.
Avoid smoking, spitting, or drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours. Otherwise, you risk dislodging the blood clot forming in the extracted tooth's socket, which can lead to a painful condition called dry socket.
If you have any questions or concerns in the days after your extraction, make sure to let us know.
Dental Extractions Near Me in Mallard Creek, NC
If you need to have a tooth extracted, Afton Dental is the place to be. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring our valued patients are as comfortable as possible throughout any procedure. You can always count on us for exceptional, compassionate care. We invite you to call us at 704-788-1717 or complete our online form to schedule your appointment today!