Dental Extractions
Personalized Family Dentistry in Franklin, Tennessee
Dr. Anne Marie Ellis is the dentist taking new patients in Franklin, TN. The Longpoint Dental team looks forward to making each patient feel like they are part of our family. Call today to schedule an appointment at our state-of-the-art office.
Dental Extractions in Franklin, TN
Finding an experienced and helpful dentist you trust is a must to keep your teeth healthy. Whether you are new to the Franklin, TN, area or are simply searching for a new general dentist that is a better fit for your family’s needs, Longpoint Dental offers a wide range of general services to help keep your teeth feeling their best!
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction, also known as dental extraction or tooth removal, is a dental procedure in which a tooth is carefully and professionally removed from its socket in the jawbone and gum. Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible and accessible in the mouth. This type of extraction is typically carried out when the tooth is damaged, decayed, or loosened due to trauma. Surgical extractions are more complex than simple extractions and are typically necessary for teeth that are not easily accessible or visible in the mouth. This may include impacted wisdom teeth or teeth that have broken off at the gum line.
Common Reasons for Tooth Removal
Severe Tooth Decay or Damage
When a tooth is severely decayed or damaged, it may not be salvageable through restorative procedures like fillings or crowns. In such cases, extraction becomes necessary to prevent the spread of infection and potential damage to neighboring teeth and gums.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, due to limited space in the jaw, they often become impacted, meaning they don’t fully erupt through the gum line. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, swelling, infection, and even cause damage to adjacent teeth.
Advanced Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can lead to the deterioration of the supporting structures around a tooth, including the gums and bone. If the disease reaches an advanced stage, the affected tooth may become loose and need to be extracted to preserve oral health.
Is Getting a Tooth Pulled Painful?
Getting a tooth pulled might raise concerns about potential pain and discomfort. However, rest assured that with modern dental techniques and appropriate anesthesia, tooth extractions are typically a relatively painless procedure. Before any tooth extraction, your dental professional will discuss anesthesia and sedation options to ensure your comfort during the procedure. The most common methods include:
- Local Anesthesia
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
- Oral Sedation
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation
Benefits of Tooth Extraction
Relief from Dental Pain and Discomfort – Toothaches caused by severe decay, infection, or trauma can be excruciating and significantly impact your daily life. By removing the source of the pain through tooth extraction, you can experience immediate relief, allowing you to eat, speak, and go about your activities without discomfort.
Prevention of Further Dental Problems – Extracting severely damaged or decayed teeth is a preventive measure to stop the spread of infection and potential complications. Leaving compromised teeth untreated can lead to more significant oral health issues, such as gum disease, abscesses, and damage to adjacent teeth.
Improving Oral Health and Function – Damaged teeth can hinder your ability to chew properly and affect your overall oral function. By removing these teeth, you create space for your remaining teeth to function optimally, promoting better chewing, speech, and overall oral health.
After-care Instructions
- After the Procedure – To control bleeding after the procedure, bite gently on the gauze pad placed over the extraction site for 30-45 minutes. Be careful not to disturb the extraction site with your tongue or fingers, as this can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
- Managing Discomfort and Swelling – Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Applying a cold compress to the affected area in 15-minute intervals during the first 24 hours can reduce swelling and provide relief.
- Dietary Guidelines – Stick to soft and cool foods for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that may irritate the extraction site. Refrain from using straws for drinking, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot and impede healing. Steer clear of alcohol and tobacco products during the healing process, as they can hinder healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Oral Hygiene Practices after Extraction – Continue brushing your teeth as usual, but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, gently brush the area with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid rinsing your mouth forcefully for the first 24 hours. Afterward, you can rinse your mouth with warm saltwater (1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of water) several times a day to keep the area clean.
Tooth Removal in Franklin, TN
When faced with dental issues that may require tooth removal, Dr. Ellis is here to provide you with the highest quality of care for our patients. If you are experiencing dental pain, have damaged or decayed teeth, or are considering orthodontic treatment, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Longpoint Dental in Franklin, TN.