Tooth Extractions – Abilene, TX
Removing Troubled Teeth to Protect Your Smile
All of your teeth are quite important and even being without just one can be very problematic. That’s why we do our best to save them whenever possible! That said, teeth can develop problems that threaten the rest of your smile, and the only way to ensure things don’t escalate out of control is a tooth extraction in Abilene. Rest assured, if this is something we recommend, there’s a very good reason for it, and we’ll make sure that you’re very well-informed and comfortable committing to the procedure.
Why Choose 325 Dentistry for Tooth Extractions?
- Abilene’s Top-Ranked Prosthodontist Since 1996
- Advanced Dental Technology for Precise, Streamlined Care
- Same-Day Emergency Dental Appointments Available
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
A few common situations that can be resolved via tooth extraction include:
- The tooth in question is so damaged, decayed, or otherwise compromised that a filling or dental restoration won’t suffice.
- A tooth needs to be removed before receiving dentures or to eliminate overcrowding, often before orthodontics.
- A tooth is impacted or blocked from erupting properly.
- Severe gum disease has compromised the tissue surrounding a tooth, making it unstable.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
Our talented prosthodontists, Dr. R. Hawley and Dr. J. Hawley, go above and beyond to make the entire treatment process smooth and stress-free.
Whether you’re having one tooth extracted or several, the first step is always the same: numbing your mouth. Then, when you’re comfortable and ready to begin, they will rock the tooth loose, remove it, and tend to the extraction site. If the tooth is trapped underneath the gumline, then a small incision will need to be made before the tooth is removed section by section. Again, you won’t feel any pain because your mouth will be completely numb.
Rest assured, they will review what to expect beforehand, check on you throughout the treatment process, and provide you with aftercare instructions so you can heal comfortably as well.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
To ensure the recovery period goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, we will provide you with aftercare instructions, like:
- Changing the gauze pads as needed
- Keeping your head elevated, even while you sleep
- Eating only extremely soft foods, like plain yogurt
- Drinking lots of water to stay hydrated (just don’t use a straw)
- Brushing carefully around the extraction site
- Taking prescribed or OTC pain medication as directed
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Can I Leave the Space Empty After a Tooth Extraction?
Many people who are getting one of their rear molars removed from the back of their mouth tend to think that they won’t need to replace it, especially since no one will see it. However, it’s important to know just how crucial your teeth are for your smile. Not only are they essential for a beautiful grin, but they’re needed for chewing efficiently and pronouncing words and sounds properly. Missing a single tooth, even from the back of your mouth, can make common oral habits more difficult to perform. For example, having trouble chewing can lead to indigestion and malnutrition. That’s why, after you’ve completely recovered from a tooth extraction, our team recommends that you schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss the potential tooth replacement options that can best meet your oral health needs.
What Risks Are Involved with Tooth Extractions?
Similar to most other dental procedures, there’s always some level of risk that comes with a tooth extraction. When extracting a tooth, the main thing to avoid is infection, as this can end up spreading to the rest of your smile and negatively impact your gums and other teeth. We also want to prevent dry socket, as this can allow bacteria to more easily accumulate in your mouth. To best avoid these types of oral health issues, our team will provide you with specific aftercare guidelines so that you can maintain a healthy mouth while also keeping potential problems at bay.
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Plenty of people feel hesitant to move forward with a tooth extraction because they’re concerned about discomfort during the procedure. Fortunately, with modern dental technology and techniques, you shouldn’t have to worry much about this. Firstly, our team will utilize a local anesthetic to numb your mouth before beginning your treatment so that you can have a pain-free experience. Also, we can offer sedation dentistry to help you stay completely relaxed and as comfortable as possible while you undergo your procedure. After your appointment, it’s normal to experience some soreness and sensitivity for a few days, but we’ll give you aftercare instructions that can help you stay comfortable during your recovery while also preventing issues like infection. If you do notice any strange symptoms or worsening discomfort, be sure to call our team for help.
Can I Smoke After Getting a Tooth Extracted?
Smoking or using tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, and even e-cigarettes, can interfere with your healing process. That’s why it’s highly recommended that patients don’t smoke before their treatment, and you should avoid smoking for at least a week after the procedure; if possible, two weeks for better results. If you’ve had trouble quitting this habit in the past, feel free to inform our team. We’ll be more than happy to help you prepare for your upcoming dental treatment so that you can have the best possible outcome.