Safely Remove A Tooth at Ase Dental
When you visit our Silver Spring dentist, Dr. Alice Bassford, she does everything she can to keep your natural teeth looking and feeling stunning. However, certain situations may require Dr. Bassford to remove a tooth to create a better environment for your oral health. If tooth extraction is the best option for you, our dental team at Ase Dental works hard to make the experience quick, easy, and comfortable.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure where a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. This procedure is typically performed by a dentist such as Dr. Bassford or an oral surgeon. There are various reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary, including:
- Severe tooth decay
- Advanced gum disease
- Overcrowding
- Impacted wisdom teeth
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
Severely Damaged or Decayed Teeth
When a tooth is severely damaged or decayed beyond repair, Dr. Bassford may decide tooth extraction is the best solution. Extraction becomes necessary to prevent further oral health complications in cases where we can’t save the tooth through restorative procedures like fillings or crowns.
Overcrowding
Overcrowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in the mouth to accommodate all the teeth. This can lead to misalignment, crooked teeth, and bite problems. In such cases, extraction can create room for orthodontic treatment or prevent future dental issues.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often emerge during the late teens or early twenties. However, these teeth may not have enough space to grow properly, leading to impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth. Extracting impacted wisdom teeth can prevent these complications.
Periodontal Disease
Advanced gum disease, known as periodontal disease, can cause irreversible damage to the gums, ligaments, and bones supporting the teeth. In severe cases, extraction may be necessary to remove teeth loosened or severely affected by the disease.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
Consultation and Examination
Before the tooth extraction procedure, you will have a consultation with Dr. Bassford. During this appointment, she’ll examine your mouth and take X-rays to evaluate the condition of the tooth and surrounding structures. This examination helps our Silver Spring dentist determine the most appropriate approach for the extraction.
Anesthesia and Sedation
To ensure your comfort during the procedure, Dr. Bassford will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Depending on the complexity of the extraction or your anxiety levels, she may also offer relaxation therapy to help you feel calm during the procedure.
Tooth Extraction
Once the area is numb, Dr. Bassford will begin the tooth extraction. Using specialized dental instruments, she’ll carefully loosen the tooth from its socket. Your dentist may create a small incision to access the tooth properly. Once the tooth is loose, Dr. Bassford will gently remove it.
Aftercare and Recovery
After the extraction, Dr. Bassford will provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and minimize discomfort:
- Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
- Take prescribed pain medications as directed.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity for the first 24 hours.
- Eat soft foods and avoid hot beverages.
- Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene but avoid the extraction site.
Frequently Asked Questions
The duration of the tooth extraction procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case. On average, a straightforward extraction can take around 20 to 40 minutes. However, more complicated extractions may require more time.
During the procedure, you will be under the effect of local anesthesia, ensuring you won’t feel any pain. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, but Dr. Bassford will prescribe pain medication to manage any post-operative pain effectively.
The recovery time can vary from person to person. It generally takes about one to two weeks for the extraction site to heal fully. However, you may start feeling better within a few days after the procedure.
Dentists recommend sticking to a soft diet for the first few days after the extraction. Safe foods to eat after extraction include mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup, and smoothies. As you heal, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods back into your diet.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Bassford
Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that can address various oral health issues. If you need a tooth extraction in Silver Spring, MD, Dr. Bassford is a trusted professional who can provide the care you deserve. By following her guidance during the procedure and aftercare, you can ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Schedule your appointment with our Silver Spring dentist by calling (301) 593-5500 or filling out our online contact form. We look forward to meeting new patients from the Silver Spring area, including Kensington, Chevy Chase, and Glenview, MD.