Tooth Extractions in Springfield

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

If you have severe tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma, you may have to have the affected tooth pulled to preserve your overall oral health. When a tooth is unrestorable because of a very large cavity, for example, getting a tooth pulled has an added benefit of stopping the pain of severe decay. In the following sections, we discuss some of the conditions that make extraction unavoidable. We’re always happy to talk with you about your own dental needs, so schedule an evaluation today.

How Much Do Dental Extractions Cost?

The complexity of your case, including how difficult it is to remove your tooth and the type of extraction needed, will determine your estimated tooth extraction cost. Your out-of-pocket cost may also be reduced by your dental insurance coverage.

Why Was I Referred for an Oral Surgery Extraction?

If your tooth is impacted or if it hasn’t erupted through your gum line, our dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon for tooth extraction surgery. This is often necessary because there isn’t enough visible tooth present for the dentist to grasp and pull with forceps.

How Are Cracked, Broken or Severely Decayed Teeth Handled?

Our dentists are committed to saving as many of your natural teeth as possible. With this goal in mind, our dentist will first examine your tooth to see if the crack or decay reaches the center of your tooth. Next, the dentist will evaluate whether root canal therapy is feasible to repair the tooth. If the tooth cannot be saved, getting the tooth pulled is recommended to remove the damage and relieve your pain. After teeth extractions, it’s important to talk to your dentist about replacing the extracted tooth so that you can keep your teeth functional and in alignment.

I Have Advanced Gum Disease, So Why Did My Dentist Advise Extraction?

Gum disease is actually one of the most prevalent causes of tooth loss. The bacteria and toxins produced by advanced stage gum disease attack the ligaments and bone supporting your teeth. As a result, your teeth become loose and painful, which can be relieved by dental extraction.

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Often a Problem?

Wisdom teeth are essentially a third set of molars that start to come in during the late teen years. Many of us don’t have large enough jaws to make room for these new teeth, preventing the wisdom teeth from erupting properly. If the teeth can’t come in fully, they can become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth are often quite painful and can cause problems with surrounding teeth. Even if there is space for wisdom teeth to emerge properly, they are difficult to clean well, so they are often plagued by decay. For these reasons, wisdom teeth removal is often recommended.

What Is Recommended for Teeth That Are Too Crowded?

When teeth are crowded, they force new teeth to emerge at angles, creating a dysfunctional bite. Crowded teeth are also difficult to clean, and they’re prone to decay. Removing one or more teeth can create needed space in your mouth to accommodate braces so teeth can be straightened.

What Types of Extraction Aftercare Duties Do I Need to Do?

We’ll provide you with a list of activities you must avoid for the first 24 hours after your procedure, and we’ll give you advice for caring for your extraction site. These are important instructions to follow so that a blood clot will form in your extracted tooth’s socket. Sometimes, swelling at the site may occur following the extraction, so we’ll also how to minimize your discomfort.

How Soon Can I Expect to Heal from an Extraction?

Tooth extraction healing usually takes about a week, although recovery time for surgical tooth extractions may be longer. The first 24 hours after the procedure are the most limited and is when patients should simply rest. After the first 24 hours, light to moderate activity is usually okay, although patients should avoid anything vigorous. It’s important to wait for your dentist’s clearance before you resume rigorous activity. If you have any questions about your healing process, feel free to call us.

Don’t suffer from a tooth that is badly decayed or injured. We’re just a quick phone call away, helping you to get started back on the path of a healthy smile. Contact us today for an evaluation for tooth extraction in Springfield.