Dental Extraction
Do I need a tooth extraction?
Our aim as dentists is always to save your natural teeth, however, sometimes it just isn’t possible. You may require a tooth extraction due to overcrowding, excessive decay or infection. Dental extractions are usually done as a last resort, when all other treatment options have been exhausted. A consultation with one of our expert Bella Vista dentists is the best way to determine whether you need a tooth extraction. And maintaining regular dental check-ups is the best way to avoid needing one!
Thanks to modern cosmetic and restorative dentistry, there are several options we can offer you for replacing missing teeth, should you need a tooth removed.
At Lexington Dental, we know that the idea of having a tooth extracted may stir up some dental anxiety for nervous patients. Please know that our team of dental professionals go above and beyond to ensure our patients feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible at all times.
The tooth extraction process
The process for a tooth extraction may differ slightly from one patient to the next depending on the case at hand. A simple tooth extraction can be performed by our dentists at our Bella Vista dental practice. Modern dental tools, technology and techniques makes it a relatively quick and easy process.
Here is what to generally expect during your tooth extraction:
- Your dentist administers a local anesthetic to numb the area. This means you should only feel slight pressure during the procedure.
- Depending on the complexity and state of the tooth, your dentist may have to make a small incision into your gum for easy removal of your tooth, otherwise, they may just need to gently loosen the tooth using a special tool until they are able to remove it.
- In some cases, you may require a few little stitches to improve site healing and reduce the risk of infection.
- Your dentist will place some gauze over the site to halt any bleeding. We’ll ensure the site has stopped bleeding before you go home and answer any questions or queries you may have.
Gentle Dental Extraction Bella Vista
Aftercare following
a dental extraction
It may take you a couple of days to recover from your dental extraction procedure. The anesthesia may take a few hours to wear off so make sure you don’t bite your cheeks, lips or tongue during that time. Once the anesthesia wears off you may feel a little discomfort or pain, this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You can use an ice pack to reduce any swelling.
Make sure you rest and relax for the first 24 hours. You should only eat soft foods such as yogurt or soup for the first 48 hours. After this you can slowly reintroduce your normal diet. You can brush and floss your teeth as usual but avoid the extraction site. Once the site has healed you can go back to life as normal!
