Visit Esthetique Dental Office Today Or Call: (817) 741-1240
Transform Your Smile with Teeth Whitening at Esthetique Dental
A dental extraction is a procedure to remove a tooth from your mouth. A dental extraction is most commonly required if one of your teeth is damaged beyond practical repair. The most common reasons for tooth extractions include:
- Severe tooth decay or infection may make it impossible or too costly to repair a tooth
- Advanced gum disease may require a tooth to be pulled so it doesn’t affect the supporting tissues and bone structures of your mouth
- A tooth may be extracted if it is blocking other teeth from coming in
- During orthodontic work, teeth may need to be extracted to create room for the teeth that are being moved into place
- Wisdom teeth are often extracted either before or after they come in
What to expect?
Your emergency dentist in Keller will first administer an anesthetic to numb the area and reduce discomfort. During the extraction, you will feel the pressure of the tooth being removed, but will not feel any pain. Typically, the dentist can remove your tooth within a matter of minutes.
Immediately after the tooth extraction, a small amount of bleeding is normal and a patch of gauze will be placed in the affected area. The area may bleed minimally for the next 24 hours or so and taper off after that. Follow your Keller dentist's instructions on how often to change the gauze, and what other post-procedure steps to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
We always prioritize saving your natural teeth. Extraction is only recommended when a tooth is too severely damaged by trauma, decay, or advanced gum disease (periodontitis) to be saved by a root canal or crown.
Is the Extraction Process Painful?
No. We use potent local anesthesia to completely numb the area, ensuring you do not feel any pain during the procedure. You will only feel some pushing and pressure.
What is the Recovery Time After an Extraction?
Most patients feel well enough to return to normal, light activity the next day. Initial healing takes about 3 to 5 days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions, including diet restrictions, to prevent complications.
What Care is Needed After the Procedure?
It is crucial to follow instructions, which include avoiding smoking, using a straw, or spitting vigorously for 48 hours to protect the blood clot that forms in the socket.
Do I Need to Replace the Extracted Tooth?
We highly recommend replacing the tooth (usually with an implant, bridge, or denture) to prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting, which can cause bite problems and bone loss over time.
What Are My Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth?
Common replacement options include a dental implant (the best long-term solution), a fixed dental bridge, or a removable partial denture. We will discuss which option fits your needs best.