Tooth Extractions at Palmetto Family Dental

When Are Tooth Extractions Necessary?

Tooth extractions are typically a last resort after other treatment options, like dental fillings or root canals, have been considered. Common reasons for tooth extraction include:

• Severe Tooth Decay: When decay extends deep into the tooth and cannot be restored, extraction may be the best option.
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth that are impacted or growing incorrectly can cause pain, crowding, or infections and may need to be removed.
• Overcrowding: Extractions may be necessary to create space for orthodontic treatments, like SureSmile.
• Periodontal Disease: Advanced periodontal therapy may not be enough to save a severely affected tooth, leading to extraction.
• Dental Emergencies: In cases of trauma or severe infection, emergency extractions may be required to relieve pain and prevent further complications.

Learn more about our dental emergencies service to understand how we can help when urgent care is needed.

The Tooth Extraction Process

At Palmetto Family Dental, our compassionate team is committed to making the extraction process as stress-free as possible:

1. Consultation and Examination: During your consultation, our skilled doctors will assess your condition using dental X-rays to determine the best course of action.
2. Numbing the Area: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
3. Extraction: The tooth is carefully removed, and any necessary post-extraction steps, such as cleaning the socket or placing stitches, are completed.
4. Aftercare Instructions: We provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you manage recovery, including tips on managing pain, swelling, and maintaining oral hygiene.

For patients with anxiety or who require complex extractions, general anesthesia options are available to ensure maximum comfort.

What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction

Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery. After your extraction, follow these tips to promote healing:

• Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activity: Take it easy for the first 24 hours to allow your body to heal.
• Manage Bleeding: Bite down on gauze as directed to control bleeding, and avoid disturbing the extraction site.
• Apply Ice Packs: Ice packs can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
• Avoid Smoking and Drinking Through a Straw: These activities can dislodge the blood clot, leading to dry socket, a painful condition that may require additional treatment.

For ongoing care, including fluoride treatments and regular dental cleanings, visit us at one of our convenient locations.

Replacing Extracted Teeth

Replacing a missing tooth is essential to maintaining oral health and function. At Palmetto Family Dental, we offer various tooth replacement options, including:

• Dental Implants: A permanent and natural-looking solution that restores the look and function of your smile.
• Dental Bridges: Bridges fill the gap left by an extracted tooth, preventing shifting and bite issues.
• Full & Partial Dentures: Ideal for multiple missing teeth, dentures restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently.

Explore our restorative dentistry services to find the best option for your needs.

Serving Your Community with Quality Care

Palmetto Family Dental is dedicated to providing exceptional care to residents of Fayetteville, McDonough, Palmetto, and Zebulon. Our team is committed to making each visit comfortable and ensuring you feel informed and cared for every step of the way. Visit our locations to find the office nearest you.