How Do We Extract A Tooth?

tooth extractionWhen possible, we want to help repair a decayed or damaged tooth with lifelike fillings or crowns. However, sometimes an oral health issue arises that means the best course of action for your smile is to remove a tooth. In today’s blog, your Woodland Hills, CA, dentist is talking about how we remove teeth safely and comfortably.

The Reasons for Removing a Tooth

We usually remove teeth that have sustain damage too severe to be repaired, such as a broken or cracked tooth. Extraction could also be needed if you have an infection or cavity so severe that without removal, infection could reach surrounding teeth. If you have major misalignment, then taking out a tooth could make room to reposition your smile, and we may also prescribe removal if a tooth is loosened due to gum disease. The most common reason however, is to address wisdom teeth. Also known as third molars, these are up to four additional molars that erupt in the rear of the mouth when we reach our late teens and early 20s. Removal prevents serious complications, like painful impactions, damaged teeth, dental misalignment, or infection.

The Extraction Process

To remove a tooth, we start by administering a local anesthetic, as well as dental sedation, which ensures you remain calm and comfortable.  We then gently remove the tooth in question with forceps. Afterward, we will suture the area closed. You then have a friend or family member bring you home, as sedation may take time to wear off completely.

What Happens Next

At home, you should take any prescribed medications as recommended, and also consume only soft foods for the first day or two. Be sure you avoid straws for the first day or two, and try not to prod the extraction side with your tongue. You need on continue brushing and flossing, but do so very gently of course. During a follow-up visit, we will make sure everything is healing as it should, and then remove your sutures. If you have any questions about identifying and treating serious oral health concerns, of if you think you may have an issue that requires extraction, then please let us know. Remember, we also have tooth replacement options with dental bridges, partial dentures, and dental implants.

Do You Have Questions About Restorative Dentistry?

Our team is able to address an array of cosmetic and restorative issues, often in a single visit. For more information on our restorative treatment options and custom-made dental prosthetics, then please schedule a consultation by calling Woodland Hills Dental Arts in Woodland Hills, CA today at 818-347-5124. We also proudly welcome patients from Thousand Oaks, Westlake, Encino, Sherman Oaks, and all surrounding communities.