Tooth Extractions in Northeast Philadelphia

What Causes a Tooth to Need Extraction?

Getting a tooth pulled may be the only option if the tooth is severely damaged by gum disease, decay, or injury. When a large cavity causes so much damage that the tooth cannot be restored, extraction actually helps alleviate the excruciating pain caused by the decay. We discuss the conditions that lead to extraction below, so keep reading for more information.

What Is the Average Tooth Removal Cost?

Each patient’s tooth extraction cost will depend on what type of extraction is needed. Simple extractions usually cost less than surgical tooth extractions, and teeth that are easy to remove cost less than teeth located in more difficult-to-reach areas. Dental insurance can help defray much of your cost, so be sure to let us know if you have insurance.

When Do I Need a Surgical Extraction?

During the typical extraction, the dentist uses forceps to clasp onto the tooth and pull it. If there isn’t enough tooth to grasp with forceps, either because the tooth hasn’t erupted through the gum or the tooth is impacted, tooth extraction surgery is necessary. In these cases, our dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon.

Are Cracked, Broken, or Severely Decayed Teeth Always Pulled?

Sometimes, our dentist can save a severely decayed or cracked tooth using root canal therapy and a crown. When the tooth cannot be repaired, our dentist will recommend that you have the tooth pulled. The extraction not only eliminates the pain you feel with a damaged tooth, but it also allows you to replace it with an implant or bridge that can help restore your tooth’s function. Your dentist will talk with you about potential replacement options once your tooth has been extracted.

Can a Tooth with Gum Disease Avoid Extraction?

If treated early, gum disease doesn’t have to mean that you lose your teeth. However, advanced stage gum disease often leads to tooth extraction. That’s because periodontal disease breaks down the ligaments that support your teeth. With the ligaments and bone damaged by the disease, your teeth become unstable and wobbly. When this happens, it’s often best to have the affected tooth pulled.

What’s the Process for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

The process for removing your wisdom teeth depends on your individual needs. If wisdom teeth have come up through the gums, our dentist may be able to perform simple wisdom teeth extractions. If patients have impacted wisdom teeth below the gum line, we usually recommend patients have them surgically removed by an oral surgeon. Wisdom teeth removal is a commonly performed procedure. That’s because most patients don’t have a jaw that’s large enough to integrate this third set of molars. This lack of space causes most wisdom teeth to become stuck under the gum or to come in at an angle.

Do Crowded Teeth Need to Be Pulled?

If you have too many adult teeth in your mouth, new teeth may grow in at various angles. Braces and orthodontic appliances can straighten teeth, but first, room needs to be made in your mouth. To create this space, one or more teeth will need to be removed.

Will I Receive Dental Extraction Aftercare Guidelines?

We provide you with detailed instructions about how to care for your extraction site and a list of activities that you cannot do in the first 24 hours after your procedure. Please follow our instructions closely as your extraction site needs to form a blood clot for the area to heal properly. You may experience some discomfort or swelling after the extraction, so we’ll also provide you with suggestions for handling this discomfort.

How Fast Will I Heal After an Extraction?

While healing is a unique process for every patient, you can usually expect to be healed within a week of your simple extraction procedure. The first 24 hours following your extraction should be devoted to resting. After the first 24 hours, you can engage in light to moderate activity, avoiding anything arduous. Your dentist or oral surgeon will let you know when it’s alright to restart strenuous activities. Healing from more complex extractions may take a bit longer than a week. That’s especially true for surgical tooth extraction healing, which may last for more than a week.

If you want a dentist who is experienced in tooth extraction in Northeast Philadelphia, contact our practice today. We’ll schedule you for an evaluation with one of our skilled dentists.