While it’s now a common dental procedure, having a tooth extracted or removed is often a cause for anxiety among many dental patients. If you’re having a tooth pulled in Marietta, GA, Kenmar Dental can provide expert care in a relaxing environment.
There are times when it is necessary to remove a tooth. Sometimes a baby tooth has misshapen or long roots that prevent it from falling out, but it must be removed to make way for the permanent tooth to erupt. At other times, a tooth may have so much decay that it puts the surrounding teeth and jaw at risk, so your doctor may recommend removal and replacement with a bridge or implant. Infection, orthodontic correction, or problems with a wisdom tooth can also require removal of a tooth.
When it is determined that a tooth needs to be removed, your dentist may extract the tooth during a regular checkup or may schedule another visit for this procedure.
The root of each tooth is encased within your jawbone in a “tooth socket,” and your tooth is held in that socket by a ligament. In order to extract a tooth, your dentist must expand the socket and separate the tooth from the ligament holding it in place. While this procedure is typically very quick, it is important to share with your doctor any concerns or preferences for sedation.
Once a tooth has been removed, neighboring teeth may shift, causing problems with chewing or with your jaw joint function. To avoid these complications, your dentist may recommend that you replace the extracted tooth.
Each extraction is different, depending on the type of tooth to be removed, the location of the tooth in the mouth and the overall condition of the tooth and dental health of the patient. Your dentist will fully explain the procedure and any post-extraction treatments necessary at the time of your appointment.
In general, recovery after having a simple tooth extraction is straightforward, although there are a few tips to follow:
Does having a tooth pulled hurt?
A simple tooth extraction is usually carried out under local anesthesia. While you may feel pressure in the area during the procedure, it shouldn’t cause any pain. You may feel discomfort after the anesthesia wears off, but this can be managed with cold compresses or over-the-counter pain relief medication.
How long does recovery take after having a tooth removed?
This will vary depending on the sort of extraction that was necessary but for simple extractions of already erupted teeth, you should be fully recovered within 48-72 hours. Avoid strenuous activity during this time to allow the clot to form and the healing process to get underway.
I thought it was only wisdom teeth that needed to be extracted by a dentist?
While millions of wisdom teeth are removed every year, there are millions more teeth that are removed for other reasons. Overcrowding, decay, damage and failure to fully erupt through the gum are some of the most common reasons to have a tooth or teeth extracted.
Will I need a replacement for the tooth that was removed?
Sometimes, yes. Teeth are not static and can shift and move quite easily when a gap has been left. To avoid future complications with misaligned teeth or change to your bite, your dentist may recommend a dental implant or a bridge to maintain your smile and the integrity of your jawbone.
Where can I find a dentist to extract a tooth in Marietta, GA?
Kenmar Dental is proud to provide dental care to patients in Marietta, Kennesaw and surrounding areas. If you think you need a tooth removed and need more information about a local dentist near you, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
