Tooth Extractions in Pepper Pike, OH
When Removing a Tooth is the Only Option
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, we will try to save it whenever we can with an appropriate form of restorative dentistry. However, sometimes there simply is no viable way to salvage the tooth. Thus, as a last resort, we may suggest a tooth extraction. Rest assured that you can count on Dr. Csok to help make sure that you stay calm and comfortable throughout this procedure. Contact us right away as soon as you have reason to think that your tooth might have to be removed.
Why Choose Dental & Cosmetic Solutions for Tooth Extractions?
- Sedation for Nervous Patients
- Caring and Committed Dental Team
- Flexible Payment Options
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
Tooth extractions are only recommended when they’re deemed absolutely necessary for protecting the health of the smile. For example, you might need to have a tooth taken out if it has an infection that might spread to other parts of your mouth. Additionally, sometimes a damaged tooth may be too weak for a crown, leaving no choice but to remove it.
A tooth extraction could also be a necessary preparatory step for orthodontic treatment. Teeth that are too crowded together may not have enough room to shift toward their preferred alignment, but an extraction can create the necessary space.
Finally, if you plan on replacing your compromised teeth with dentures, any such teeth that are still in your mouth will obviously have to be removed before you can receive your prosthesis.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
As long as the tooth in question has fully emerged from beneath your gums, it should be possible to remove it with forceps and a special dental instrument called an elevator. Once the tooth has been loosened by the elevator, it can be gently taken out with the forceps. This process is known as a simple extraction.
It should be noted, though, that some tooth extractions involve surgery. This is typically done for teeth that are fully or partially impacted (meaning they are still under the gums and can’t erupt correctly). An opening will be created in the gums so that the tooth can be taken out. Sometimes the tooth might be divided into smaller pieces, which will make it easier to remove from the jaw safely.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Your primary concern after tooth extraction should be to avoid a dry socket, which is a condition that can result in significant discomfort and cause healing to take longer than normal. Preventing dry socket means protecting the blood clot at the site where the tooth was removed; you should therefore avoid drinking through a straw, spitting, or directly touching the area in question.
When it comes to diet, you will need to stick to soft options like scrambled eggs for at least a few days. Additionally, if there’s any discomfort, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever.