Tooth ExtractionDental extractions are the process by which a tooth is removed. There are several reasons why this would occur, though this is one of many treatment options that our dentist may discuss with you. Dental extraction is a quick and painless procedure. Following this procedure, you will get more advice on how to have a smooth recovery. There are also a number of restoration options after your tooth has been extracted. We will customize a treatment plan for you at Leavenworth Family Dental. Reasons for Dental ExtractionsThere are two main reasons why a tooth would be extracted: crowding and infection. Crowding is when your teeth are too close together and it is causing pain or difficulty in daily activities. Crowding can also leave you more susceptible to infection as it makes maintaining good oral hygiene more difficult. You may also already have an infection or other type of tooth damage. When your tooth is damaged or infected beyond repair, it needs to be extracted. If you leave an infected tooth in the mouth, the infection could easily spread into the gums and bloodstream. This would lead to other major health complications. Extraction ProcedureThere are two types of extraction: simple and surgical. These are very similar, though surgical extraction is a bit more involved. A surgical extraction is saved for when the tooth is not visible and able to be easily manipulated. A simple extraction is used when the tooth is exposed and easily removed without the use of incisions in the gum. Both types of extraction require the use of at least a local anesthetic, though our dentist may also recommend a general anesthetic as well. A simple extraction is accomplished through the use of a lifter and forceps. These dental tools are able to grab hold of the teeth so that our dentist can simply wiggle them until they are released. Surgical extractions are completed using the same tools after an incision has been made in the gums. A common use for surgical extraction is the removal of impacted wisdom teeth. RecoveryRecovery from anesthesia can take several hours, and you may still feel numb or groggy. It is also normal to experience tenderness and swelling in the gums, as well as slight bleeding, in the days following your procedure. Our dentist will suture any incisions and provide gauze to control the bleeding. You should change the gauze frequently and use it as long as the area is still bleeding. RestorationFollowing a dental extraction, some people choose to leave the empty space where their teeth used to be. However, there are several restoration options such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures. These structures each have a different way of providing replacement teeth that can look and act like your natural teeth. Molds for these restorations may occur at the same appointment or before the extraction. These structures are produced by our dental lab. We can discuss with you the various materials and types of restorations available prior to your procedure. This helps us to create a comprehensive treatment plan. Call Leavenworth Family Dental at 913-682-1550 for additional information on dental extractions. |