Tooth extraction is always the treatment choice of last resort, but may be necessary for a number of situations:
- Overcrowding of teeth
- Advanced gum disease or infection
- Significant tooth damage or decay
If a tooth extraction is considered necessary for the long-term maintenance of your oral health, we can perform the procedure in the comfort of our Burlington, NC dentist office. In most cases, tooth extraction is a rather simple procedure that can be completed with the use of a local anesthetic.
Patients may experience mild discomfort during the procedure, but in the case of advanced decay or infection, the tooth extraction may relieve pain.
Replace Missing Teeth
Having missing teeth can affect your smile, the shape of your lower face, and your ability to eat certain foods. It can also cause bone loss and an unbalanced bite. An unbalanced bite will lead to TMJ symptoms.
After a tooth is extracted, Dr. Fuller will recommend dental implants to replace your missing teeth. Implants are the number one recommended solution to missing teeth. They are the most natural-looking and advanced solution when compared to other teeth restorations. Implants are the only solution that permanently replaces teeth.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
The removal of wisdom teeth is often considered a “rite of passage” as we grow into adults. The reason for removing these third molars is to stabilize your long-term dental health and ensure that the fit of your bite is not impacted as they grow.
In many cases, wisdom teeth fail to erupt completely and are impacted in the jaw bone. Over time, this can put pressure on surrounding soft tissue, adjacent teeth, nerves, and even ear canals. Your dentist at Fuller Dental will work with you to determine if your wisdom teeth should be removed.
The procedure for removing wisdom teeth may require dental sedation if there is bone involvement. Fuller Dental offers complete services for removing wisdom teeth in our dentist office, making it both convenient and comfortable for our patients.
If you or your child experience bleeding or sudden pain after your procedure, contact our office as soon as possible for advice on how to proceed. Give us a call at (336) 290-7401, or request an appointment online today.
We also provide preventative care services to our patients so they can avoid decay and other common dental problems.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
How long should it hurt after tooth extraction?
After the tooth is extracted, you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications only as prescribed, since some medications can actually hinder the healing process. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
How does a tooth extraction heal?
To promote proper healing, avoid smoking, rinsing, or drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours. These activities can dislodge the clot, delay healing, and lead to dry sockets. A cold cloth or ice bag may help with any pain or swelling. It is important to continue to brush and floss normally, however, take care to avoid the teeth next to the tooth socket.
When can I eat normally after a tooth extraction?
It is best to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before gradually returning to your normal diet. After 48 hours, we recommend going slow while trying to eat normally. Complications do not normally occur, but contact your dentist if you find yourself in pain a few days after your tooth extraction.