Extractions

When a tooth can't be saved, it needs to be extracted to preserve the health of the rest of your mouth. You're probably aware that a deep cavity or infection that can't be treated with a root canal requires an extraction. There are other reasons for extraction that you may be less familiar with, such as advanced gum disease, broken teeth, or even crowding caused by extra teeth. Orthodontists may recommend an extraction before orthodontic work. Prothodontists may also recommend an extraction to improve the fit of dentures or partial dentures.

Fortunately, an extraction is no longer a procedure to fear. At Pretty Smile Dental, your comfort is a priority. We offer STA painless local anesthetic technique and superficial numbing agents to make sure your comfort.

Wisdom Tooth Extractions

Many times, wisdom teeth, the final set of molars to emerge, are no problem at all; you just need to take a little extra care to make sure you reach them when you brush and floss. However, sometimes there isn't enough space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to come out. When that is the case, the wisdom teeth can become impacted, which means they are trapped by the jaw, gums, and surrounding teeth and are unable to grow properly.

Impacted wisdom teeth can be very painful and are extremely vulnerable to infection. They can also cause bleeding and swelling of the gums and crowding of the other teeth, pushing them out of proper alignment. Impacted wisdom teeth can even cause bad breath and headaches.

Our senior surgeon Dr. Wang can consult with you on whether a wisdom tooth extraction is right for you -- it's often better to go ahead and do them early, before the roots have fully bonded with the jawbone, and stop problems before they start.

What Should I Expect When I Have a Tooth Extracted?

As always, your health and comfort are our top priorities. First, Dr. Wang will take X-rays of your mouth to make sure he has a clear understanding of your case. Then he will explain what needs to be done and give you a chance to ask questions about why he recommends an extraction and what will happen during the procedure itself. Dr. Wang will also talk about your options for anesthetics or sedation. You may prefer just a common local (and highly effective) anesthetic, or you may decide you would rather have a STA painless local injection. After the extraction, most patients recover in two or three days.

How Should I Take Care of my Mouth After I Have a Tooth Extracted?

After an extraction procedure, it's normal to experience mild discomfort and swelling. You can help alleviate that by using an ice pack for about 20 minutes after the tooth is pulled. You may also experience some light bleeding. It will help to put some pressure on the area. Try rolling up some gauze, putting it over the empty socket, and biting down. Make sure you feel some pressure when you bite down, and leave the gauze in for about 45 minutes. If you prefer, you can try putting a moistened tea bag over the area instead. For the first two days, you shouldn't drink through a straw or spit, and you absolutely must not smoke. Avoid hard or crunchy food like nuts and popcorn for the first few days as well.

24 hours after your procedure, you can start rinsing the area with warm salt water. You can also brush the area gently with a soft-bristle brush. And, of course, you should carefully follow the instructions for any antibiotics that Dr. Wang prescribes for you. Be sure to read the label and ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.