Tooth extraction treatment may be necessary if a patient has advanced structural decay or damage. Patients may also require this general dental solution to resolve overcrowding or to relieve impacted wisdom teeth. Before resorting to tooth extraction, Dr. Robert Gauthier will attempt to preserve the natural tooth. He may recommend a dental filling, an inlay or onlay, or a root canal. Dr. Gauthier only performs a tooth extraction when necessary for patients in his Northborough, MA office.
Often called ‘pulling teeth,’ extractions are simple outpatient procedures. Typical tooth extractions are not painful because we use anesthetic and dental sedation. Dr. Gauthier will thoroughly numb the area before treatment. All you will feel is some slight pressure and tugging.
Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
At our office, we’re committed to preserving natural tooth structure whenever possible. However, sometimes a tooth extraction is necessary for patients’ oral health.
If a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, it may be best to remove it to avoid further harm to your mouth. Wisdom teeth are also often extracted because our mouths aren’t large enough for this extra set of teeth, that erupt in the late teenage years.
Another common reason we extract teeth is to assist with overcrowding and orthodontic treatment. When you have a smaller mouth and extremely overcrowded teeth, it’s necessary to remove teeth to have room for a healthy, even smile.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
The wisdom teeth often emerge during the late teenage years through the early twenties. Wisdom teeth, also called the third molars, typically lack adequate space in the jaw to erupt correctly. We can remove them to prevent them from becoming impacted or causing damage to the other teeth.
You may feel pain as your wisdom teeth emerge, and tooth extraction can alleviate that pain. We use anesthetic to numb the area before extracting wisdom teeth so patients will feel no pain during the procedure.
What Is a Dry Socket?
After a tooth is extracted, a blood clot will form. This is necessary to stop bleeding and facilitate proper healing. Dry socket is a condition that sometimes develops after a tooth is extracted. This is when a clot has become dislodged and can lead to many problems.
To avoid dry sockets, we recommend that patients refrain from smoking, drinking through a straw, or vigorous rinsing for at least 24 hours after an extraction.
These activities can dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket. Dry socket can be extremely painful and delay healing times. If you are experiencing dry socket or pain at the extraction site, contact our office as soon as possible.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure in Northborough, MA
Tooth extraction is a relatively simple procedure. First, the dentist will numb the area to minimize discomfort. After the area around the tooth is numb, your dentist will extract the tooth by gently rocking it back and forth using specialized tools.
The socket will be packed with gauze to aid in stopping the bleeding. In most cases a small amount of bleeding and swelling is normal. The gauze should remain in for at least 30 minutes to an hour. 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 socket.
A cold cloth or ice bag may help with any pain or swelling. Dr. Gauthier will prescribe pain medication if needed to help with the discomfort. You can take over-the-counter pain medication to alleviate pain. Continue to brush and floss regularly to maintain oral hygiene.
Replacing Extracted Teeth
If a tooth is extracted due to severe decay or damage, Dr. Gauthier will advise that you replace it. He may recommend a dental bridge, partial denture, or dental implants based on the location and number of teeth pulled.
Dental implants are the most natural solution to missing teeth. Replacing your tooth with an implant will replace the missing root, preventing bone loss, a common problem with other dental restorations.
Implants may be used to secure crowns, bridges, or dentures. They are permanent restorations that restore function and aesthetics to patients’ smiles. Securing restorations with implants also extends their lifespan and makes it easier to speak, chew, and function normally.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Do you have further questions about tooth extractions? Continue reading to find answers to common questions about tooth extraction treatment in Northborough, MA, here:
Does tooth extraction treatment hurt?
Most patients are surprised at how little discomfort they experience during their tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal. Your Apex dentist will give personalized recommendations for handling any discomfort after treatment. Most patients are able to return to their routines the next day and only need ibuprofen.
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
At Apex Dental, we try to help our patients keep as much of their natural smile as possible. In some cases, a tooth extraction becomes necessary to restore the patient’s oral health. Impacted molars, overcrowding, or decay that has damaged most of the tooth structure may require a tooth extraction.
If I need a tooth extraction, can I replace my missing tooth?
Yes. Dr. Gauthier offers full-service dental implants from the comfort of our Northborough, MA, dentist office. In most cases, Dr. Gauthier can perform all phases of the implant procedure and will coordinate with specialists on your behalf if necessary. Dental implants are the most natural and functional option for replacing missing teeth.
Can I eat after a tooth extraction?
After we extract your tooth, we recommend a soft diet for a few days. You should avoid hard, crunchy, and hot foods and spicy foods. After a few days you can slowly reintroduce a normal diet as you heal. Then add normal foods back into your diet. However, be mindful of the extraction site to prevent complications.
How do I brush and floss after a tooth extraction?
We recommend that you brush and floss while avoiding the extraction site for the first 24 hours after your treatment. When you brush, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss before you brush to remove food and bacteria from between each tooth.
Don’t use mouthwash or rinse your mouth with water because it can remove the blood clot that protects the area where your tooth was removed. This can cause a painful problem called dry socket.
You can begin to clean the area with a pipette of water once the extraction site closes. The water will help remove leftover food from the site and reduce the risk of infection.
How long does it take to recover after extraction?
It will only take a few days to recover from a tooth extraction. You will experience some mild discomfort and swelling where over the counter pain medication will help. However, complete healing of the extraction site will take a few weeks. During this time, you need to maintain proper oral hygiene and follow your dentists post-extraction care instructions. This will prevent infection and complications.
Does everyone need to have their wisdom teeth removed?
People often ask if it necessary to have their wisdom teeth removed. It has become a common practice to take them out simply because of the many issues they can cause. Some people can live their lives with their wisdom teeth without any issues. However, they raise your risk of overcrowding and tooth decay.
Can wisdom teeth cause crowding of other teeth?
A common reason to remove the wisdom teeth is due to crowding. As those teeth emerge, there is a risk that they can cause the surrounding teeth to shift. This can lead to bite problems. Crowding is a common reason why dentists now recommend removing wisdom teeth as they emerge.
Schedule Your Appointment for a Tooth Extraction in Northborough, MA
Do you need your wisdom teeth removed? Are infected teeth impacting your smile? Call Dr. Gauthier at (508) 506-1691 for comprehensive dental treatment today. You can also request an appointment online by filling out the form.
We provide tooth extraction in Worcester, Westborough, Northborough, and the surrounding areas.