Mill Creek Dental is a conservative dental practice that focuses on preserving natural teeth whenever possible. However, sometimes, the best solution for your oral health is to extract a tooth. We provide tooth extraction as a general dentistry treatment in our office.
Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth Extraction in Canton, TX
We start every treatment journey with a consultation in our office. The dentist must examine the problem tooth and how it affects the rest of your teeth. This allows us to determine if an extraction is necessary.
Simple Tooth Extractions
Complex Tooth Extractions
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
To ensure the site heals quickly and correctly, following aftercare instructions is incredibly importat.
- Bite down on a gauze pad: After the extraction, biting down on a gauze pad is important to help control bleeding. Change the gauze pad every 30-45 minutes until the bleeding stops. Be sure to bite down firmly for at least 1-2 hours after the procedure. This allows a blood clot to form in the extraction site.
- Avoid rinsing or spitting: For the first 24 hours after the extraction, it is important to avoid spitting or rinsing forcefully. This can disrupt the blood clot and increase the risk of dry socket, a painful condition when the blood clot is dislodged.
- Take pain medication as prescribed: Your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage discomfort after the extraction. Take the medication as directed and avoid taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Apply ice packs: To reduce swelling and discomfort, apply an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to prevent frostbite on the skin.
- Eat soft foods: In the first 24 hours after the extraction, stick to a soft diet to avoid aggravating the extraction site. Good options include yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid crunchy, sticky, or hard foods that may irritate the extraction site.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol: Smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It is best to avoid smoking for at least 72 hours after the extraction. Alcohol can also interfere with the healing process, so it is best to avoid it for the first 24 hours.
- Follow proper oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water after meals to help promote healing and reduce bacteria.
- Avoid touching the extraction site with your tongue or fingers. This can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
- Watch for signs of infection: Look for signs of infection, such as increasing pain, swelling, fever, or pus in the extraction site. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about tooth extractions, we have answers. Read below to find out our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
How long can you delay wisdom tooth extraction?
You can delay wisdom tooth extraction as long as there are no signs of pain, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth. However, waiting too long can lead to complications like crowding, cysts, or gum disease. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays help monitor the condition of wisdom teeth and determine the right time for removal.
Can I wear my retainer after tooth extraction?
You should avoid wearing your retainer immediately after a tooth extraction until the area has healed. Wearing it too soon may cause irritation or pressure on the extraction site. We will let you know when resuming using your retainer is safe.
What happens to the empty space after tooth extraction?
After a tooth is extracted, the surrounding bone and gums will heal, but the empty space can cause nearby teeth to shift over time. In many cases, dentists recommend replacing the missing tooth with an implant, bridge, or partial denture to preserve alignment and function.
What happens if I ignore my wisdom teeth?
Ignoring wisdom teeth can lead to overcrowding, infections, cavities, and cysts if they become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth may also damage neighboring teeth or cause gum disease. Regular monitoring and timely removal prevent these complications.
Will my dentist take X-rays before the extraction?
Yes, dentists typically take X-rays before a tooth extraction to evaluate the position, root structure, and proximity to nerves or sinuses. X-rays help plan the procedure and minimize risks during the extraction process.
Will my insurance cover tooth extraction?
Most dental insurance plans cover tooth extractions, especially if they are medically necessary due to pain, infection, or crowding. Coverage may vary for wisdom tooth removal, particularly for surgical extractions, so it’s important to check your specific policy for details.
Schedule an Appointment
Do you think a tooth extraction may solve your dental problems? Call us to schedule an appointment.