Painless Tooth Extraction Dentist Houston, Texas.

Although every effort is made to save a tooth, it is often necessary to recommend extraction. One of the first concerns when discussing tooth extraction is usually the pain associated with the procedure while in the office. To minimize much of the pain and discomfort from this procedure we offer Sedation Dentistry for tooth extraction and other dental procedure at the request of our patients.

When should a tooth extraction be an option?

A dentist or an orthodontist may opt to pull a tooth for many reasons. The tooth may be so hopelessly damaged from tooth decay that it cannot be saved even with root canal therapy. It may be causing crowding or malocclusion (bad bite) which may prevent a new tooth from breaking through. Or, the tooth may be loose as a result of gum disease or even from an accident.

How is a tooth extraction done?

In a simple tooth extraction a dentist takes hold of the tooth with forceps and rocks it back and forth to loosen it from the bone. Removal of the overlying gum might be necessary if a tooth is not quite through the gum.

After a tooth extraction, a blood clot forms where a tooth had once been. It is important not to dislodge the blood clot because it aids in healing. Disturbing the clot can result in a dry socket -- a painful condition that may or may not heal by itself. Some swelling and light bleeding may occur over the next 24 hours.

What do you do after a tooth extraction?

Proper care of the affected area will determine the length of time and the level of comfort experienced during the healing process. Refrain from smoking for at least 24 hours after a tooth extraction. Don't allow food to pack in the socket. If your dentist prescribed mediation be sure to take it.

What are the consequences of tooth extraction?

A missing tooth leaves a large enough gap for other teeth to shift. You may also have difficulty chewing and may experience a problem with malocclusion (bad bite). These difficulties can be alleviated with dental implants, fixed bridges or dentures.

Tooth extraction for an impacted tooth:

An impacted tooth is a tooth that is covered by gum tissue, bone, or both. Most impacted teeth are wisdom teeth and they require an incision to uncover the tooth. After the removal of the tooth, sutures (stitches) are placed to help with the healing. The dentist will normally prescribe pain medication after the procedure.

What do you do after tooth extraction?

To promote healing:

• Ice the area on and off for 24 hours.
• Drink cool liquids i.e., iced tea.
• Eat soft, cool foods.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Take medication as prescribed.

To avoid dislodging the clot and delay healing don't:

• Smoke.
• Rinse your mouth with mouthwash or other substances vigorously.
• Drink or eat extremely hot or cold foods or liquids.
• Drink carbonated drinks.
• Drink through a straw.

You can usually return to your normal routine within two or three days after a tooth extraction. During the first few days after the procedure you may rinse your mouth gently or, if you have pain and swelling, apply a cold cloth or an ice pack. You may require pain medication. You can brush and floss the other teeth as usual, however, do not clean the teeth next to the tooth socket. After the tooth extraction, we will advise you of what post extraction regiment to follow. Keep in mind that a small amount of bleeding is normal.

For any other questions related to this procedure or any other general, cosmetic or implant dentistry questions you can contact us at 888.790.0309 or feel free to Ask the Dentist.