Are you experiencing excruciating pain in your mouth? It could result from various dental problems, including a decayed or damaged tooth. Sometimes these issues can be fixed with fillings or crowns. If the tooth is beyond repair, tooth extraction will be the best option. At A Better Smile Dentistry in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we perform comfortable and safe tooth extractions.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Extraction entails the removal of a tooth from its socket in your jawbone. It is recommended when tooth decay is extensive and nothing can be done to salvage the tooth. It is also ideal when the tooth is infected or there is a risk of infection. However, dental extraction would be the best solution if a tooth cannot be preserved. Such instances include when:
- The decay has spread deep into the gum
- There is advanced periodontal disease
- The tooth is cracked
- The tooth has an untreatable infection
Types of Tooth Extractions
There are two major types of extractions:
Simple Extractions
Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible above the gums. Dr. Bao will loosen the tooth with an elevator and remove it with forceps.
Surgical Extractions
Surgical extractions are a perfect solution if your tooth has broken off at the gum line or has not erupted fully. The surgery involves creating a small incision into the gum around the infected tooth, allowing easy removal. We may also remove a part of the bone around the tooth if necessary.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
A standard tooth extraction takes about one hour to complete. It involves the following steps:
X-Ray
The first step into tooth extraction is taking an X-Ray of the affected tooth to evaluate the surrounding bone's condition and the location of the tooth's roots under the gum line.
Treatment Plan
Dr. Bao will use the X-ray to determine the appropriate extraction method and create a comprehensive tooth extraction plan.
Extraction
We will give a local anesthetic to ensure the extraction process is as comfortable and painless as possible. Once the tooth is pulled out, gauze will be placed on the operated area to reduce bleeding. If necessary, we may stitch the area to speed up the healing of your gums.
What to Do After Extractions?
After tooth extraction, you will need a few days to recover at home. With proper care and adequate rest, the wounds left during the procedure will generally heal quickly and without complications. It would help if you limited any taxing activities in the first couple of days to minimize bleeding and encourage the blood clotting process.
If you think your tooth needs to be removed, visit our office, A Better Smile Dentistry, at 475 Coors Blvd NW, Ste A, in Albuquerque, NM 87121. You can also reach Dentist in Albuquerque NM at (505) 208-0505 and schedule an appointment.
