Tooth Extractions for a Better Smile
Severely damaged or infected teeth may need to be removed since they can pose a threat to the rest of your smile. Fortunately, our Ashland, OR dentist, Dr. James Burneson, makes this process as seamless as possible by providing gentle tooth extractions. At Today’s Dentistry, we understand that getting a tooth removed is a dreaded process for most patients. That’s why Dr. Burneson makes every effort to repair and restore your tooth before considering tooth extraction.
Extracting a tooth doesn’t mean you’ll never be able to smile again. Dr. Burneson offers restorative services like dental implants to preserve your beautiful smile. We’re proud to serve patients in Talent, Phoenix, Medford, and the surrounding areas.
What Are Tooth Extractions?
Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure that involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. There are several reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted, including decay, gum disease, injury, or crowding in the mouth.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
In some cases, a tooth may need to be extracted if it is impacted, meaning that it has not erupted fully from the gum line. This can occur with wisdom teeth, which are the last set of molars to emerge in the mouth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection, and they may need to be removed to prevent further complications.
In addition to wisdom teeth extractions, our Ashland dentist also performs extractions for orthodontic or cosmetic reasons. If a tooth is damaged or decayed beyond repair, it may need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or denture to restore the function and appearance of the smile.
The Tooth Extraction Process
The first step in the tooth extraction process is a consultation with Dr. Burneson. During this appointment, the dentist will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to determine the best approach for removal. He will also discuss any potential risks and alternatives with the patient. This is an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have and understand what to expect during the procedure.
We’ll apply a local anesthetic to the target area. This will numb the area around the tooth and reduce discomfort during the procedure. After ensuring you’re numb, we’ll loosen the tooth from its socket by gently rocking the tooth back and forth to loosen the ligaments that hold it in place. In some cases, Dr. Burneson may need to make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
Once Dr. Burneson loosens the tooth, he will use special tools to gently remove it from its socket. He’ll clean the extraction site and may place gauze in the socket to control bleeding. After the extraction, the dentist will provide instructions on caring for the affected area to ensure proper healing. This may include avoiding solid foods, brushing and flossing gently, and using an ice pack to reduce swelling.
Aftercare Instructions
Dr. Burneson recommends the following aftercare tips:
- Avoid drinking through a straw or eating crunchy foods for the first 24 hours
- Apply an ice pack
- Take pain medication as prescribed
- Avoid extremely hot liquids
- Follow a soft food diet
It’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by your dentist. If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, call our Ashland office immediately at (541) 482-7771.
Frequently Asked Questions
The recovery time from a tooth extraction varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s overall health. Typically, it takes about one to two weeks for the extraction site to heal. You must follow your dentist’s post-op instructions to ensure your recovery goes smoothly.
To prevent the need for tooth extraction, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Early intervention for any dental issues can help prevent the need for a tooth extraction.
You should avoid brushing near the extraction site for the first 24 hours, but you can brush your other teeth as usual. After the first 24 hours, you can brush your teeth gently but avoid the extraction site. This will ensure that you don’t irritate the extraction site.
The Solution to Tooth Pain In Ashland, OR
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in a tooth, it may be time to consider a tooth extraction. With modern techniques and advanced dental technology, tooth extractions are a safe and effective solution to improve your oral health. Our experienced dental team at Today’s Dentistry is dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care and comfort.
Don’t let tooth pain or discomfort control your life. Contact us today at (541) 482-7771 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how tooth extraction can benefit your oral health. Let us help you take control of your smile and start smiling again.