Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions may be required for tooth that are severely damaged by tooth decay or gum disease.  Here, at Brushwell Dental, we prefer to save teeth when we can.  That means we’ll explore other alternatives to treatment before committing to a tooth extraction.

When do you need a tooth extraction?

Here are the common reasons to have your tooth extracted:

• Severe tooth damage due to tooth decay and/or gum disease
• Irreparable damage due to trauma
• Problematic wisdom teeth
• Certain medical conditions

What should you expect during a tooth extraction?

At the time of surgery, we will numb the area around the tooth or teeth with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. Even though you should not feel pain during the procedure, you may experience some pressure while your dentist loosens the tooth for extraction.

After the tooth is extracted, a crucial part of the healing process is biting down on gauze so that a blood clot can form. We ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after the appointment. In most cases, a small amount of bleeding is normal for up to 24 hours.  Soreness and swelling after a tooth extraction may occur. Keep swelling at a minimum by applying an ice pack to the facial area.  Over-the-counter pain reliever may be used.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.