No one likes the idea of having their teeth removed. With proper care, your teeth can and should last a lifetime. But you may need a tooth extraction for several reasons, such as severe dental decay, infections, and overcrowded teeth. While having a tooth removed may not be pleasant, it is usually a very quick and easy procedure. Discover Dental uses cutting-edge surgical techniques to perform tooth extractions in Houston.
Standard Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the bone, also called exodontia. There are various reasons why tooth extraction may be required. It may be necessary to remove a tooth that is severely decayed, damaged, or infected. In some cases, tooth extraction may be needed to make room for orthodontic treatment. If your teeth are too close together, it can be difficult to clean them properly, which can lead to tooth decay and infection.
Reasons for Tooth Removal:
- Severe tooth decay or infection
- Advanced gum disease
- Orthodontic treatment
- Impacted teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth
Is your tooth causing you extreme pain? Speak with our dentist to see if a tooth extraction is the best option for you. Book now.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come in and are typically found in the back of your mouth. They usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, wisdom teeth come in without causing any problems, but often they can crowd other teeth, grow in at an angle, or remain stuck under the gums (impacted). When this happens, they may need to be extracted. Wisdom tooth extraction can protect the surrounding teeth from damage and infections.
Signs & Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth:
- Dull and constant or sharp and sporadic pain
- Pain can radiate from your wisdom teeth to your jaw, ear, head, or neck
- Trouble opening your mouth wide
- Swelling in your gums
- Signs of infection in your wisdom teeth
- Difficulty while chewing food
- Persistent bad breath
- Formation of a pus-filled pocket (abscess)
- Metallic taste in the mouth
Our dentist can help if you have tooth pain, swollen gums, or wisdom teeth that are erupting. Make an appointment online or call us today.
What Happens During Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions are typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. Before the procedure, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. During the procedure, the dentist will loosen the tooth and remove it from the mouth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into sections before it can be removed. After tooth extraction, the area will be covered with a gauze pad to help stop the bleeding. The dentist may also place a stitch (suture) to help close the extraction site.
Are your wisdom teeth causing you exruciating pain? Speak to our dentist to see if a wisdom tooth extraction is right for you. Book now.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Who performs dental extractions?
Dental extractions are commonly performed by dentists and oral surgeons. The tooth may be removed for a variety of reasons, including tooth decay, crowding, or infection. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area and keep the patient comfortable during the procedure.
How should I plan for a tooth extraction?
- Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before the procedure
- Avoid eating or drinking for at least 6 hours before the procedure
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure
What is the recovery from wisdom teeth extraction?
After tooth extraction, it is normal to have some discomfort and bleeding. To help with the discomfort, take pain medication as prescribed by your dentist. The bleeding should stop within a few hours. If it does not, contact your dentist. To help with the bleeding, bite on a gauze pad for at least 30 minutes. You may also need to apply ice to the area for the first few hours after the procedure.
You must keep the extraction site clean after the procedure. Brush your teeth gently, and do not rinse vigorously for at least 24 hours. After 24 hours, you can start rinsing your mouth with salt water several times a day. You should also avoid smoking and drinking from a straw for at least 24 hours. These activities can cause the extraction site to bleed. In most cases, you will be able to return to your normal activities the day after the procedure.
What are the signs and reasons your teeth may need their wisdom teeth taken out?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to come in. They usually appear in the late teenage years or early twenties. They may not have enough room to come in properly, or they may come in at an angle. This can cause problems with biting or chewing and can also lead to crowding of the other teeth. Wisdom teeth may also be impacted, which means they are trapped beneath the gum tissue and bone. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth.
What are my options for replacing a missing tooth?
If you have a missing tooth, there are several options for replacing it. You can get a dental implant, which is a replacement tooth that is anchored into your jaw. You can also get a dental bridge, which is a false tooth that is held in place by your other teeth. You can also get a denture, which is a removable false tooth.
How long does a dental extraction take?
The duration of time it takes to perform a dental extraction can vary depending on several factors including the location and complexity of the tooth being extracted, the patient’s individual anatomy, and whether any complications arise during the procedure. In general, a simple extraction can be completed in as little as a few minutes, while more complex extractions such as those involving impacted teeth or multiple extractions, may take up to an hour or even more. Our dentist in Houston will work to ensure that the procedure is performed as efficiently as possible while also prioritizing your comfort and safety throughout the process. After the extraction, it’s important to follow our dentist’s post-operative instructions to help promote healing and prevent complications. Schedule your appointment now to get the care you need!
What to eat after dental extraction?
After a dental extraction, it’s important to eat soft, nutritious foods that won’t irritate the extraction site or damage any blood clots that may have formed. Some good options include pureed soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and protein shakes. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, as well as hot or spicy foods that can cause discomfort. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge blood clots and delay the healing process. Be sure to follow our dentist’s post-operative instructions in Houston and take any prescribed medications as directed to help manage any pain or discomfort and promote healing. Book your appointment now!
When to stop using gauze after tooth extraction?
It’s typically recommended to use gauze for the first few hours following a tooth extraction to help control bleeding and promote clotting at the extraction site. Our dentist in Houston may provide specific instructions on how often to change the gauze and how long to continue using it. In general, most people can stop using gauze within the first 24 hours after the procedure or once bleeding has stopped. However, if bleeding persists or becomes heavier after removing the gauze, contact our dentist immediately. They may need to apply additional pressure or take other steps to stop the bleeding and promote healing easily. It’s important to follow our dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery. Schedule your appointment now!
How long to keep gauze in after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, Our dentist may provide you with gauze to help control bleeding and promote clotting at the extraction site. It’s typically recommended to bite down on the gauze for about 30-45 minutes following the procedure, then replace it with fresh gauze as needed. In general, most people can stop using gauze within the first 24 hours after the procedure, or once bleeding has stopped. However, if bleeding persists or becomes heavier after removing the gauze, contact our dentist immediately. They may need to apply additional pressure or take other steps to stop the bleeding and promote healing. It’s important to follow our dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery. Book now!
What can i drink after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, it’s important to stay hydrated, but you should avoid drinking through a straw, as the suction can dislodge blood clots and delay the healing process. It’s best to stick with cool or room temperature liquids, such as water, milk, or non-acidic fruit juices. Avoid hot drinks and alcohol, which can cause discomfort and delay healing. You may also want to avoid carbonated beverages, as the bubbles can be irritating to the extraction site. Be sure to follow our dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully and take any prescribed medications as directed to help manage any pain or discomfort and promote healing. Book your appointment now!
How long does pain last after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, it’s normal to experience some pain and discomfort in the area. The amount of pain and how long it lasts can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and your individual pain tolerance. Typically, you can expect to experience some level of pain and discomfort for a few days following the procedure. Our dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain medication to help manage any discomfort. Be sure to follow our dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully which may include avoiding certain foods and activities to help promote healing and reduce pain. If you experience severe or prolonged pain, contact our dentist immediately, as this could be a sign of an infection or other complication. Book your appointment now!
Schedule Your Tooth Removal in Houston
At Discover Dental, we understand that having a tooth extracted can be a stressful experience. Our team of experienced dentists and dental assistants will do everything possible to make your experience as comfortable as possible. We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and sedation to ensure your comfort during the procedure. We will also discuss all options with you prior to beginning any treatment so you know what to expect. Please schedule your tooth removal in Houston — our dental clinic is located next door to Studewood Cantine Grill in Houston.