Tooth Extractions
A Better Foundation
for Your Smile
At Wichita Falls Dental, we understand that there’s no substitution quite like your natural pearly whites, which is why we do our best to preserve them. However, in some cases, like a tooth with severe decay or damage that can’t be treated, the only way that we can protect the health of your other teeth and reduce your risk of experiencing additional damage is to remove the problem tooth. In these situations, we offer gentle tooth extractions for Wichita Falls, TX dental patients.
Why Choose Wichita Falls Dental for Tooth Extractions?
- Dentist with Over 2 Decades of Experience
- Compassionate Dental Staff
- We Accept Most Dental Insurance
Common Reasons for
Tooth Extraction
We always make sure to do everything we can to save your natural tooth before we suggest removing it. Some of the reasons why we may suggest a tooth extraction include:
- A severely decayed tooth that can’t be repaired with a filling.
- Severe gum disease
- Severely fractured or broken tooth
How Tooth
Extractions Work
Tooth extractions are relatively simple procedures. First, we’ll administer a local anesthetic to the area to make sure that it’s completely numb and you can’t feel anything during the treatment. We’ll then use an elevator to gently grip and break the tooth free of its socket, including the attachments of the tissues that are supporting the tooth. Using a pair of forceps, we’ll lift the tooth out of your mouth. Teeth with multiple, or long, curved roots will need to be sectinoed and removed in multiple pieces.
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Reading through common reasons for tooth extractions in Wichita Falls and how the procedure works can give you a better insight into what to expect. However, you may still have a few questions on your mind – it’s only natural! For that reason, we’ve responded to a few of the most frequently asked questions below. If you can’t find the answer you are looking for or would prefer to speak directly with our team, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
How Long Will the Gum Take to Heal?
The length of your recovery period will depend on a number of factors, including the location of the teeth, how many are being extracted, and the type of surgery. With that being said, it typically takes between seven and 14 days for your gums to heal. Following your post-operative instructions to a tee can promote faster healing and ensure a smoother recovery.
What Can I Do to Promote Healing Following the Procedure?
Some soreness and discomfort following your procedure is completely natural. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to remain as comfortable as possible throughout the process, including:
- Taking OTC or prescribed pain relievers as instructed.
- Using ice packs or a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Rinse with a mixture of salt and warm water to prevent infection.
- Don’t drink with a straw or spit.
- Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing, like yogurt and applesauce.
- Focus on resting for the first 24 to 48 hours, elevating your head to stop bleeding.
What Is a Dry Socket?
A dry socket is a painful dental condition that can develop if the blood clot on the extraction site dislodges, dissolves, or fails to develop altogether. Fortunately, it is largely preventable if you don’t smoke, avoid drinking through a straw, and follow all of your other aftercare instructions.
Should I Brush and Floss My Teeth After a Tooth Extraction?
A crucial component of successful healing is an infection-free environment. Therefore, you should begin brushing and flossing your teeth starting the evening of your procedure, avoiding the extraction site at first. Once tenderness permits, you can begin gently cleansing the area. Until then, rinse with a mixture of salt and warm (not hot) water to kill harmful bacteria and keep the area clean.
Can I Keep My Wisdom Teeth?
If your wisdom teeth aren’t impacted or causing other issues for you, then you can keep them. At your bi-yearly dental checkups and cleanings, our team will monitor them closely. If they begin to result in unpleasant symptoms, like chronic discomfort, we can intervene by conducting an extraction.
What Should I Do Immediately After My Tooth Extraction?
Following your extraction, it is of the utmost importance that you focus on healing. After all, removing one or more teeth is nothing to take lightly. With this in mind, make sure to:
- Bite down on gauze to stop bleeding from the extraction site.
- Don’t take any blood thinners, like aspirin, for the first two to three days following the procedure.
- Don’t smoke, spit, or use straws.
- Avoid touching the extraction site with your tongue.
- Stick to soft foods following your procedure, like oatmeal and yogurt.
- Avoid spicy, hot, hard, or chewy foods.
At Wichita Falls Dental, we are proud to offer affordable wisdom teeth extractions in Wichita Falls. If you have more questions about the procedure or are ready to schedule your appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team via website or by phone!