While preserving our natural teeth is a priority, there are situations where tooth extractions become necessary. Extractions can help alleviate pain, prevent further complications, and pave the way for a healthier smile, whether due to severe decay, advanced gum disease, trauma, or overcrowding. At General and Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa, the procedure is straightforward and performed with appropriate anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Following proper post-extraction care and attending follow-up appointments are crucial for a smooth and efficient recovery.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
Severe Decay
When tooth decay progresses to an advanced stage and compromises the tooth's structure, extraction may be the most viable option to prevent the spread of infection and protect the surrounding teeth.
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to the destruction of gum and bone tissues, causing teeth to become loose. Extraction may be necessary in advanced periodontitis to preserve overall oral health.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often lack the space to erupt properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth, necessitating removal.
Overcrowding
In certain orthodontic cases, tooth extraction can create space for proper teeth alignment, allowing for more effective treatment.
Dental Infections
Infections that cannot be effectively treated with antibiotics or root canal therapy may require extraction to prevent the spread of infection to surrounding teeth or throughout the body.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
Before the extraction, the area around the tooth will be numbed using a local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free experience. The dentist will carefully loosen the tooth from its socket using specialized instruments, such as elevators and forceps. The tooth is gently rocked back and forth until it can be lifted from the socket. Sometimes, a tooth must be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. After the tooth is extracted, a piece of sterile gauze is placed over the extraction site, and you will be instructed to bite down gently to promote blood clot formation and control bleeding.
A blood clot will form in the extraction site, essential for healing. It is crucial to protect the blood clot to avoid a painful condition called dry socket. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage discomfort or swelling following the extraction. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, but you should avoid brushing the extraction site for the first 24 hours. Afterward, gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and resume brushing, being cautious around the extraction area.
Tooth extractions are dental procedures performed when preserving a tooth is not feasible or in the best interest of oral health. For the best dental care tailored to your unique needs, visit Dentist in Tampa, FL - General and Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa at 3112 West Kennedy Blvd, Tampa 33609, or 5010 Gunn Hwy, Tampa 33624, or call (813) 892-3287.
Locations
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- WED8:30 am - 3:00 pm
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3112 West Kennedy Blvd Suite A, South Tampa, Fl 33609
Phone: (813) 874-5869
Email: chris.southtampadental@gmail.com
Fax: 8138745821
- MON - TUE8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- WED8:30 am - 3:00 pm
- THU8:30 am - 4:00 pm
- FRI - SUNClosed
General and Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa - Randall Diez and Michael Diez
Location
5010 Gunn Hwy,
Tampa, FL, 33624
Phone: (813) 960-5869Text Us: (813) 960-5869